The Moroccan U-20 national football team has etched its name in the history books by reaching the FIFA U-20 World Cup final for the first time ever, a remarkable milestone for the North African nation and the continent as a whole.
In a tense and dramatic semifinal encounter, Morocco edged past France after a 1–1 draw in regulation and extra time, ultimately winning in a penalty shootout. The victory marks a defining moment for Moroccan football, symbolizing the country’s steady rise on the global stage.
The match, played at Estadio Elías Figueroa Brander, kept spectators on edge from start to finish. Morocco took the lead in the 32nd minute when a foul on Baouf led to a penalty. Zabiri’s attempt struck the post and deflected off French goalkeeper Lisandru Olmeta into the net, officially recorded as an own goal.
France responded early in the second half, with Lucas Michal equalizing in the 58th minute following a brief lapse in Morocco’s defense. The intensity grew as the minutes passed, and Morocco faced a setback when starting goalkeeper Yanis Benchaouch was forced off due to injury in the 64th minute. His replacement, Ibrahim Gomis, later made way for Abdelhakim El Mesbahi as coach Mohamed Ouahbi prepared for a possible shootout.
Extra time saw both teams pressing for a winner, but neither could find the breakthrough. France were reduced to ten men in the 107th minute after Nzingoula received his second yellow card for pulling a Moroccan player’s shirt.
The penalty shootout proved decisive. El Mesbahi, who had not featured earlier in the tournament, became Morocco’s hero after saving France’s final penalty from Djylian N’Guessan, sealing Morocco’s place in the final.
For Morocco, this achievement goes beyond football, it represents national pride and the growing influence of African youth football. The young Atlas Lions have shown exceptional discipline, teamwork, and resilience throughout the tournament.
Morocco will now face Argentina in the final on Sunday, October 19, 2025, with a chance to make even greater history by lifting their first-ever FIFA U-20 World Cup trophy.
