Morocco U20 World Cup Champions: Historic First FIFA Title Defeat Argentina 2-0

In a stunning display of skill and determination, Morocco's U20 national team made history on October 19, 2025, by capturing their first-ever FIFA U20 World Cup title. The North African nation defeated six-time champions Argentina 2-0 in an unforgettable final at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, Chile, before a crowd of 43,000 spectators who overwhelmingly supported the Moroccan underdogs.

This remarkable achievement marks Morocco as only the second African nation to win the prestigious U20 tournament, following Ghana's triumph in 2009. The victory continues Morocco's impressive rise in international football, building on their historic fourth-place finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Yassir Zabiri: The Hero of Morocco's Historic Victory

The star of the final was undoubtedly Yassir Zabiri, whose exceptional performance secured Morocco's victory. The talented forward scored both goals in the first half, cementing his status as the tournament's top scorer with five goals overall. His teammate Othmane Maamma finished as the competition's leading assist provider, showcasing the depth of talent in Morocco's young squad.

First Goal: A Stunning Free Kick (12th Minute)

Zabiri opened the scoring with a moment of brilliance after being fouled by Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi. Following a VAR review that resulted in a yellow card and free kick instead of the penalty Morocco had hoped for, Zabiri responded by curling a magnificent shot into the top corner, giving his team an early advantage and setting the tone for the match.

Second Goal: Clinical Counter-Attack (29th Minute)

The second goal showcased Morocco's tactical intelligence and lightning-fast transitions. After recovering possession, Ismaël Baouf played a perfect pass to Othmane Maamma, who delivered a precise cross for Zabiri to finish with a powerful volley. This devastating counter-attack doubled Morocco's lead and left Argentina chasing the game for the remainder of the match.

Morocco's Heroic Tournament Journey to Glory

Morocco's path to the championship was nothing short of extraordinary. The team's journey through the tournament demonstrated both quality and resilience, as they defeated some of football's biggest nations:

• Group Stage: Victories over Spain and Brazil secured their qualification
• Round of 16: Defeated South Korea
• Quarter-finals: Overcame the United States
• Semi-finals: Eliminated France in a dramatic penalty shootout (1-1 AET, 5-4 on penalties)
• Final: Dominated Argentina 2-0

This was Morocco's first appearance in a U20 World Cup final and their first participation in the tournament since 2005, when they finished fourth. The improvement and progress of Moroccan youth football have been remarkable, supported by investments in development programs and coaching infrastructure.

Argentina's Quest for Seventh Title Falls Short

Argentina entered the final as overwhelming favorites, having won the tournament a record six times. The South American powerhouses had been dominant throughout the competition, scoring 15 goals while conceding only two in their previous six matches. However, Morocco's organized defense and effective counter-attacking style neutralized Argentina's attacking threats.

Despite controlling possession in the second half and creating several opportunities, Argentina couldn't break through Morocco's resolute defensive line, led by goalkeeper Ibrahim Gomis and defenders Fouad Zahouani and Baouf. Substitute Ian Subiabre and star player Gianluca Prestianni came close but couldn't find the breakthrough their team desperately needed.

Football legend Lionel Messi offered words of encouragement to the defeated Argentine team on Instagram: "Keep your heads high, guys. You played an impressive tournament, and even though we all wanted to see you win the Cup, we cherish the joy of everything you gave us and the pride of seeing you defend the nation's colors with your hearts."

Belgian Connection Behind Morocco's Success

Behind Morocco's triumph stands coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who has deep roots in Belgian football. Born in Schaerbeek, Brussels, Ouahbi spent years developing young talent at RSC Anderlecht's renowned Neerpede youth academy, where he coached the U17 and U21 teams and served as assistant to Besnik Hasi.

Ouahbi's squad included several dual-nationality players with Belgian connections, including Anderlecht players Ali Maamar and Anas Tajaouart, both born in Brussels, as well as Sporting Charleroi midfielder Yassine Khalifi. This blend of Franco-Moroccan and Belgo-Moroccan talent, combined with homegrown players, created a diverse and talented squad capable of conquering the world.

National Celebration and Royal Recognition

The victory sparked massive celebrations across Morocco, with thousands of fans taking to the streets throughout the night to honor their young heroes. King Mohammed VI released an official statement praising the team's "heroic journey" and expressing "immense joy and deep pride" in their achievement. He extended his "warmest congratulations for this new global feat, the first of its kind in the history of Moroccan football."

This historic victory represents more than just a trophy—it symbolizes Morocco's emergence as a genuine football powerhouse. With the senior team having impressed at the 2022 World Cup and the Olympic team earning bronze in 2024, Morocco's youth triumph reinforces the nation's status as a rising force in world football.

Looking Ahead: Morocco's Bright Football Future

The timing of this U20 World Cup victory couldn't be better for Morocco's football ambitions. The nation has already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) starting December 21, seeking to end a 49-year drought in that competition—their only AFCON title came in 1976.

Furthermore, Morocco will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, providing an unprecedented platform for the nation's football development. The success of the U20 team suggests a golden generation of Moroccan talent is emerging, capable of achieving even greater accomplishments on the senior stage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Morocco's U20 World Cup Victory

When did Morocco win the U20 World Cup?

Morocco won their first U20 World Cup on October 19, 2025, defeating Argentina 2-0 in the final held in Santiago, Chile.

Who scored the goals for Morocco in the final?

Yassir Zabiri scored both goals for Morocco, netting in the 12th and 29th minutes. He finished as the tournament's top scorer with five goals.

Is Morocco the first African nation to win the U20 World Cup?

No, Morocco is the second African nation to win the U20 World Cup. Ghana was the first, winning the tournament in 2009.

Who is Morocco's U20 coach?

Mohamed Ouahbi, a Brussels-born coach with extensive experience at RSC Anderlecht's youth academy, led Morocco to this historic victory.

When was Morocco's last U20 World Cup appearance before 2025?

Morocco's last participation in the U20 World Cup was in 2005, when they finished in fourth place.

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