Morocco Crowned U-20 World Champions After Stunning 2–0 Win Over Argentina

Morocco Crowned U-20 World Champions After Stunning 2–0 Win Over Argentina

By Admin 

 In a match that will echo across generations, Morocco’s U-20 national team delivered a performance of tactical brilliance and attacking flair to defeat six-time champions Argentina 2–0 and win the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Under the lights of the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, the Atlas Cubs, led by head coach Mohamed Ouahbi, became only the second African team in history to lift the U-20 World Cup trophy and the first from North Africa.

Zabiri Seizes the Spotlight

The night belonged to Yassir Zabiri, the Moroccan forward whose two-goal performance sealed his place in the annals of national football history.

The opening goal came in the 13th minute after Zabiri was brought down by Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi outside the box. Rising from the turf, Zabiri stepped up to take the free-kick himself, curling a sensational strike into the top corner a moment of individual class that set the tone for Morocco’s historic evening.

His second came midway through the first half. After Ismael Baouf intercepted a pass and released Othmane Maamma on the right wing, Maamma’s pinpoint cross found Zabiri, who volleyed home with surgical precision.

Argentina, who had entered the final as favourites with a rich legacy in youth football, struggled to respond. Morocco’s combination of disciplined defending and rapid transitions repeatedly exposed gaps in the Argentine structure.

A Defensive Masterclass

While Zabiri stole the headlines, Morocco’s defensive unit delivered an equally vital contribution. Midfield anchor Baouf controlled the tempo, while centre-backs Fouad Zahouani and captain Oussama Co kept Argentina’s forward line at bay. Goalkeeper Ibrahim Gomis was rarely called into action, thanks to a tightly organised back line that absorbed pressure without panic.

Argentina’s best chance came just before halftime, when Mateo Silvetti’s shot flashed just wide of the post. But Morocco responded almost immediately, with Maamma nearly adding a third his effort cleared off the line by Juan Villalba.

In the second half, Argentina enjoyed long periods of possession but lacked penetration. Zabiri continued to threaten on the break, narrowly missing a hat-trick with a curling shot in the 70th minute. Substitute Ian Subiabre had a late opportunity for Argentina, but it sailed harmlessly wide — summing up a frustrating night for the South Americans.

A Historic Moment for African Football

Morocco’s victory echoes the achievement of Ghana’s U-20 team in 2009, who were the first African side to win the tournament. But the style, strategy, and symbolism of this win are uniquely Moroccan.

For the first time in 42 years, Argentina lost a U-20 World Cup final a streak that included victories over Brazil, Ghana, Nigeria, and Uruguay. That record now ends at the hands of a new global force.

“This victory belongs to every Moroccan child who dreams with a football at his feet,” said coach Mohamed Ouahbi, overcome with emotion during the post-match celebrations. “We came here as students. We leave as champions.”

A Generation That Delivered

Zabiri’s brilliance aside, Morocco’s collective performance was a showcase of development, tactical awareness, and unity. From the sands of the Sahara to the Mediterranean coast, this golden generation has ignited a new era of belief and ambition in Moroccan football.

Back home, scenes of jubilation erupted in Rabat, Casablanca, Fez, and Marrakesh, as thousands flooded the streets to celebrate a dream fulfilled.

As the final whistle blew in Santiago, it wasn’t just a team that had triumphed it was a nation, a continent, and a generation that dared to dream. And on this unforgettable night in Chile, the Atlas Cubs roared loudest.