In a historic achievement for African football, Morocco claimed the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup with a commanding 2–0 victory over Argentina in Monday’s final in Santiago, Chile.
The historical moment
The North Africans were inspired by Yassir Zabiri, whose brilliant first-half brace — goals in the 12th and 29th minutes — stunned the Argentine fans and sealed Morocco’s triumph.
Argentina pressed hard after the break, but Morocco’s disciplined defense held firm. Captain Rayan El-Mourabet marshaled the backline with composure, while goalkeeper Youssef Bakkali produced several crucial saves to preserve a clean sheet, according to ESPN.
Their road to victory
Morocco’s path to glory was far from easy. Drawn in a “group of death” with Spain, Brazil, and Mexico, the Atlas Lions recovered from an opening loss to Mexico to top the group, defeating both Brazil and Spain in style.
In the knockout stages, they beat South Korea in the round of 16, overpowered the United States in the quarter-finals, and edged France on penalties in a tense semi-final before their crowning moment against Argentina.
With this victory, Morocco becomes only the second African nation to lift the U-20 World Cup trophy, following Ghana’s 2009 triumph over Brazil.
How Important is the victory?
This win not only marks Morocco’s first-ever FIFA title but also stands as a defining moment for Moroccan sport and a proud milestone for African football.
For years, Morocco had participated, but the victory was always far beyond reach. After 2005, they experienced a long gap without qualifying for the U-20 World Cup.
In recent years, however, Morocco has invested heavily in youth football, producing top talents now seen in senior competitions.
The victory also marks their greatest youth football achievement.
