In a momentous occasion for African football, Morocco has clinched the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, securing their maiden FIFA trophy with a decisive 2-0 victory over six-time champions Argentina in the final held in Santiago, Chile. This historic triumph marks Morocco as the second African nation to win the prestigious U-20 World Cup, following Ghana’s success in 2009, and heralds a new era for the North African nation on the global football stage.
The Final Showdown: Zabiri Strikes Twice
The final match, played on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at the Estadio Nacional Julio MartÃnez Prádanos, saw Morocco overcome a heavily favoured Argentine side. The young Atlas Cubs owed their victory to the brilliance of striker Yassir Zabiri, who etched his name into history by scoring both goals in the first half. Zabiri opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a spectacular free-kick that found the top corner, leaving Argentine goalkeeper Santino BarbiWith no chance. He doubled Morocco’s lead in the 29th minute, converting a precise cross from Othmane Maamma to seal the win for his team. Despite Argentina dominating possession for large parts of the game, they were unable to break down Morocco’s resolute defense and capitalize on their chances, marking their first loss in a U-20 World Cup final in 42 years.
A Remarkable Tournament Journey
Morocco’s path to the final was a testament to their resilience, tactical discipline, and talent. Under the guidance of coach Mohamed Ouahbi, the team navigated a challenging tournament, topping a daunting group that included football powerhouses Spain and Brazil, despite an opening loss to Mexico. Their impressive run continued through the knockout stages, where they eliminated South Korea in the Round of 16, outclassed the United States 3-1 in the quarter-finals, and secured their place in the final by defeating France in a tense penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in the semi-finals. This victory over Argentina crowned a sensational tournament campaign for the young Moroccan squad.
Star Performers Shine Bright
While Yassir Zabiri rightfully took the spotlight for his match-winning brace, other Moroccan players also earned accolades. Othmane Maamma was instrumental throughout the tournament, not only providing the assist for Zabiri’s second goal but also earning the Golden Ball award as the tournament’s best player. Goalkeeper Youssef Benchaa and captain Ismael Baouf were also noted for their leadership and defensive contributions, anchoring a solid backline that frustrated opponents. This collective effort showcased the depth of talent within the Moroccan youth setup.
Historic Triumphs for Morocco and Africa
This historic victory represents Morocco’s first-ever FIFA trophy at any level, underscoring their growing stature in global football. It also adds a significant chapter to African football’s history, making Morocco the second nation from the continent to lift the U-20 World Cup, emulating Ghana’s achievement from 2009. The success of the U-20 team echoes the remarkable performance of Morocco’s senior men’s team, which reached the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar just three years prior. The nation’s consistent development of young talent points to a promising future for Moroccan football.
A New Dawn for Moroccan Football
The 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup title is more than just a trophy; it is a symbol of dedication, skill, and national pride. For Morocco, it signifies a momentous achievement and a redemption from their earlier loss in the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations final. As the young Atlas Lions return home, they are celebrated as heroes, inspiring a generation and further solidifying Morocco’s position as a rising force in the international footballing world. This news is a significant moment for sports news across the globe, highlighting the evolving landscape of international football and the emerging talents from Africa.