From Heartbreak to History: Morocco’s Road to the FIFA U-20 World Cup Final

Morocco’s triumphant run to the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 title was nothing short of cinematic — a story woven from adversity, resilience, and a fierce belief in destiny.

From a Group Stage defeat to an unforgettable victory over Argentina, the Atlas Cubs’ journey captured the imagination of an entire continent and announced the dawn of a new era for African football.

Group Stage: Rocky Beginnings, Glimpses of Promise

The campaign began inauspiciously with a 1–2 defeat to Mexico. For coach Mohamed Ouahbi, it was a wake-up call — a reminder that the road to glory would be paved with lessons, not laurels. In their second game, a tense 1–1 draw with Japan restored some composure, as the young Moroccans found their rhythm but still struggled for finishing touch.

It was in their final group game against Ecuador that the Atlas Cubs roared to life. A commanding 2–0 win — featuring flowing passes, fearless pressing, and tactical discipline — saw them leap into the knockout stages. It was clear then that Morocco had shaken off their early nerves and were beginning to play with the confidence befitting continental champions.

Round of 16: The West African Wall

In the Round of 16, Morocco faced Korea and won 2-1. A single goal was enough to separate the two sides. The victory wasn’t just about survival; it was the moment the team truly believed they could go all the way.

Quarter-final: French Flair Meets North African Fire

The quarter-final clash with France tested Morocco’s mettle in every sense. After a 1–1 draw in regulation time, the game went to penalties — the ultimate test of nerve. With hearts pounding, the Atlas Cubs held firm, converting all five spot-kicks to triumph 5–4. Their celebrations were emotional, a reflection of years of youth development paying off on the grandest stage.

Semi-final: Slaying the Samba

If there was any lingering doubt about Morocco’s legitimacy as title contenders, their semi-final victory over Brazil erased it. Against the five-time world champions, Morocco played fearlessly. They combined compact defending with electrifying counter-attacks, edging the South Americans 2–1.
Yassir Zabiri announced himself as the tournament’s breakout star, while Oussama Co led by example — calm, commanding, and unbreakable.

Final: Conquering the Giants

Then came the biggest test — Argentina, six-time champions and pre-tournament favourites. In a masterclass of tactical intelligence and composure, Morocco stunned the football world. Zabiri’s two goals sealed a 2–0 victory, and with it, a historic title — Africa’s first since Ghana’s triumph in 2009.

When the final whistle blew at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, tears flowed freely. From the King Mohammed VI Football Academy to Casablanca’s cafés, a nation erupted in joy. The Atlas Cubs had not just won a trophy — they had rewritten African football history.

Historical African Winners

Sixteen years apart, Africa once again stands tall at the summit of youth football. From André Ayew’s Ghanaian heroes in Cairo to Oussama Co’s Moroccan marvels in Santiago, the dream of African excellence burns brighter than ever.

Morocco’s Road to the Final