Morocco reach U20 World Cup final after dramatic penalty shootout win over France
Buenos Aires, The Gulf Observer: Morocco made history on Thursday night, advancing to the U20 World Cup final for the first time ever after a thrilling 1-1 draw with France and a tense penalty shootout victory in the semi-final.
The Atlas Cubs took the lead in the 31st minute following a VAR review. Forward Baouf was pulled down inside the box, prompting head coach Mohamed Ouahbi to use the newly introduced green card to request a check. After review, the referee awarded a penalty. Zabiri’s strike hit the post, rebounded off French goalkeeper Lisandru Olmeta, and crossed the line — officially registered as an own goal.
Morocco dominated much of the first half, displaying composure and tactical discipline. Maamma came close twice — first curling an effort just over the bar, then missing narrowly from close range after a fine build-up initiated by Yassine Gessime. The Moroccan midfield controlled possession and disrupted France’s rhythm, limiting them to a single shot on target, comfortably dealt with by goalkeeper Yanis Benchaouch.
France found their equaliser in the 58th minute when a defensive lapse allowed Lucas Michal to slot home from close range. Moments later, Benchaouch made a vital block to deny a second French goal but had to be substituted due to injury, with Gomis replacing him between the posts. Morocco pressed for a late winner, and Maamma came agonisingly close in the 90th minute, curling a shot inches wide.
Extra time saw few clear chances, but the tension was palpable. France nearly took the lead in the 102nd minute with a curling effort that drifted wide. In the 107th minute, Nzingoula received a second yellow card for pulling Gessime’s shirt, reducing France to ten men. Despite the advantage, Morocco could not capitalise, though Maamma again tested the French defence with a curling attempt in the 112th minute. France came close twice in the 118th minute, but Morocco’s defence stood firm, and a VAR handball appeal was dismissed.
Sensing the game would be decided from the spot, coach Ouahbi made a strategic late change, bringing on Mesbah for Gomis to handle the penalty shootout. The decision paid off — Morocco held their nerve and triumphed in the shootout, securing a place in the final against either Colombia or Argentina, scheduled for the early hours of Monday, October 20.
With this victory, Morocco’s U20 team not only reached their first-ever World Cup final but also marked another milestone in the nation’s remarkable rise in global football.
