In a historic feat for African football, Morocco has captured the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup title after defeating Argentina 2–0 in the final held early Monday morning in Santiago, Chile.
The Atlas Lions sealed their triumph through an exceptional performance by Yassir Zabiri, who scored both goals in the first half — netting in the 12th and 29th minutes — to silence the South American giants and deliver Morocco’s first-ever FIFA championship.
Despite Argentina’s relentless push in the second half, Morocco’s disciplined defence, led by captain Rayan El-Mourabet, and the heroics of goalkeeper Youssef Bakkali, ensured a clean sheet and a comfortable win.
According to ESPN, the Moroccan side displayed tactical maturity throughout the tournament, showing resilience against elite footballing nations.
Their journey to glory began in a challenging group that included Spain, Brazil, and Mexico. Despite losing their opener to Mexico, Morocco topped the group with back-to-back wins over Spain and Brazil.
In the knockout stages, the North Africans defeated South Korea in the Round of 16, outclassed the United States in the quarter-finals, and narrowly edged France on penalties in a tense semi-final clash.
By overcoming Argentina in the final, Morocco became only the second African nation to lift the U-20 World Cup — following Ghana’s 2009 triumph over Brazil.
This victory represents not just a landmark for Moroccan football, but a defining moment for the continent. It underscores Morocco’s growing influence in world football, following their senior team’s semifinal run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
PUNCH Online reports that the achievement stands as a testament to Morocco’s long-term investment in youth development and football infrastructure, cementing its reputation as a rising global football powerhouse.#newsafro_
