Morocco have won the FIFA Under-20 World Cup for the first time in their history, defeating Argentina 2-0 in Sunday’s final at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, Chile.
Yassir Zabiri, who plays for Portuguese top-flight side FC Famalicão, scored both goals in the first half to secure the historic triumph. He opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a curling free-kick from the edge of the box that left Argentine goalkeeper Santino Barbi rooted to the spot.
The forward doubled Morocco’s advantage 13 minutes later, firing home from close range after being set up by Othmane Maamma.
Argentina reached the final despite the absence of two of their most talented players in this age group – Bayer Leverkusen’s Claudio Echeverri and Real Madrid’s Franco Mastantuono. But they dominated possession throughout the match, controlling 71% of the ball, but struggled to convert their territorial superiority into clear-cut chances.
Morocco’s defence remained disciplined and well-organised, blocking dangerous attempts and frustrating the South Americans at every turn. Several VAR reviews and free-kick opportunities came to nothing for Argentina, who grew increasingly desperate as the match wore on.
Morocco’s second-half approach focused on protecting their two-goal cushion. Tactical substitutions bolstered their defensive and midfield lines, effectively shutting down Argentina’s attacking threat.
The 2001 champions, who were unbeaten heading into the final and seeking a record seventh title, missed a series of chances and finished the match empty-handed. Zabiri was named man of the match for his double.
Morocco’s path to glory included knockout victories over South Korea, the United States and France before Sunday’s final triumph.
The result marks their first World Cup victory at any age level and makes them the first African nation to lift the Under-20 trophy since Ghana in 2009.
