Morocco Stuns USA in U20 World Cup Shocker: Atlas Lions Roar to Victory

The American press analyzes the defeat of the United States team, which, like Morocco, wanted to reach the semi-finals of the U20 World Cup for the second time. For The Times, the Americans had 73% possession but only three shots on target. As a result, they struggled to turn their midfield dominance into clear-cut chances and ended up paying the price for their defensive mistakes. The media notes that the Americans started well, confident, taking control of the midfield and attacking with determination, but the chances were few and far between. It notes that their first real attempt was even somewhat fortuitous: Zavier Gozo’s cross from the left grazed the crossbar.

Taking advantage of defensive errors, the Atlas Lions opened the scoring in the 31st minute of play. A goal scored by Fouad Zahouani and validated by VAR. Just before the break, Nolan Norris fell after being pulled by the shoulder by Ali Maamar. The VAR (45+2) confirms the handball signaled in the box. Cole Campbell converted the penalty to bring his team back to level terms (45+6).

Upon returning from the dressing room, Morocco exerted enormous pressure on the Americans. The American defense was unable to manage a long throw-in in the box. This was followed by an own goal from defender Wynder (67’). "As Yassir Zabiri lifted his foot to clear, the ball bounced off the unfortunate Joshua Wynder and ended up in his own net," the publication reports.

The Americans then showed determination: they multiplied the attacks, but they proved fruitless. Francis Westfield almost scored with a diving header from the edge of the box. Luke Brennan wasted a golden opportunity to equalize late in the game when he found himself alone at the far post. His rushed shot went well over. Meanwhile, the Moroccans remained focused on their goal. In the 86th minute, Ilias Boumassaoudi took advantage of a misunderstanding between goalkeeper Adam Beaudry and his left-back Taha Habroune. He delivered a delightful pass to Gessime Yassine, who sealed the qualification of the Atlas Cubs for the semi-finals of the U20 World Cup (1-3, 87’).

After this victory over the United States, Morocco will face France on Wednesday, October 15. A rematch of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, but hopefully a victory for the Atlas Cubs.