Morocco Stuns Argentina to Clinch Historic U20 World Cup

The Atlas Lions dominated Argentina in the final this Sunday, October 19th in Santiago, winning 2-0. Entering the match with determination, the Moroccan players quickly took the lead and never relinquished their advantage, against an Argentine team that has won the world title in this category six times.

Mohamed Yassir Zabiri was the architect of this triumph. He first opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a powerful direct free kick that gave the Argentine goalkeeper no chance. The Moroccan striker then repeated the feat in the 29th minute, scoring his fifth personal goal in the competition and giving his team a decisive advantage before half-time.

Despite Argentine attempts to get back into the game in the second half, the well-organized Moroccan defense, led by goalkeeper Ibrahim Gomis, held firm. The Atlas Lions countered, narrowly missing a third goal, while the Albiceleste struggled with a lack of efficiency and the vigilance of the Moroccan goalkeeper.

This victory is a historic moment. It is Morocco’s first world title in this age category, and the first for an Arab nation. Morocco also becomes the second African country to win the U20 World Cup, after Ghana in 2009.