Morocco’s U-20 team made history on Thursday night, advancing to the FIFA U-20 World Cup final for the first time ever after a dramatic 1-1 draw with France that ended in a penalty shootout victory.
The Atlas Cubs, coached by Mohamed Ouahbi, showed remarkable composure and tactical discipline throughout a pulsating semi-final encounter that had fans on edge from start to finish.
Morocco took the lead in the 31st minute following a VAR review. Baouf was brought down inside the French box, prompting Ouahbi to use his “green card” to request a check. The referee pointed to the spot, and while Zakaria Zabiri’s penalty hit the post, it ricocheted off goalkeeper Lisandru Olmeta and into the net — officially credited as an own goal.
The North Africans dominated much of the first half, with Maamma twice coming close to doubling the lead. The Moroccan midfield, led by Yassine Gessime, was solid and organized, stifling France’s attacking rhythm and limiting them to a single tame effort on target.
France eventually equalized in the 58th minute after a defensive lapse allowed Lucas Michal to score from close range. Moments later, goalkeeper Yanis Benchaouch kept Morocco alive with a fine save before being forced off through injury, replaced by Gomis.
Morocco continued to push for a winner, Maamma once again threatening late on with a curling shot that went inches wide in the 90th minute.
Extra time saw few clear chances, but the intensity never dipped. France was reduced to ten men in the 107th minute when Nzingoula was sent off for a second yellow card after pulling Gessime’s shirt.
Despite the numerical advantage, Morocco couldn’t find a breakthrough, though Maamma nearly scored again in the 112th minute.
France came close in the 118th minute, but Morocco’s defence and substitute goalkeeper held firm. Ouahbi then made a bold late change, bringing on Mesbah for Gomis specifically for the penalty shootout — a move that proved decisive.
In the ensuing shootout, the Atlas Cubs kept their nerve to edge past France 5-4 and book a historic place in Sunday’s final, where they will face Argentina,who edged out Colombia 1-0.
With this result, Morocco became the first North African nation to reach the U-20 World Cup final, capping a remarkable tournament run defined by tactical discipline, resilience, and belief.
By Aymen Alami