Morocco Advance to FIFA U20 World Cup Semi-Finals After 3-1 Victory Over the United States
Rancagua, The Gulf Observer: Morocco’s U20 national football team secured a historic place in the semi-finals of the FIFA U20 World Cup after defeating the United States 3-1 in the quarter-finals at El Teniente Stadium in Rancagua.
The Atlas Cubs began cautiously, allowing the US to dominate early possession, but their tactical discipline and counter-attacking prowess soon paid dividends. Captain Othmane Maamma was instrumental in Morocco’s attacking play, creating several dangerous opportunities down the flanks. The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when Fouad Zahouani opened the scoring, assisted by Maamma, who was later named Man of the Match.
The Americans equalised just before half-time through a penalty converted by Borussia Dortmund prospect Cole Campbell, after Moroccan left-back Ali Maamar was adjudged to have committed a foul in the area. Despite the contentious nature of the decision, Campbell calmly slotted home to level the match 1-1 at the break.
Morocco regained control in the second half, taking the lead again in the 66th minute when US defender Joshua Wynder turned the ball into his own net. The North Africans sealed the victory in the 87th minute when Yassine Gessime pounced on a defensive error to score Morocco’s third, ensuring a 3-1 triumph.
The result marks Morocco’s best performance at the tournament since 2005, when Fathi Jamal’s side also reached the semi-finals in the Netherlands. Under head coach Mohamed Wahbi, the current squad will now face the winner of the France–Norway quarter-final on October 15.
Morocco’s starting lineup featured Yanis Benchaouch in goal; a defensive line of Fouad Zahouani, Ismail Bakhty, Ismael Baouf, and Ali Maamar; a midfield and attack composed of Yassine Khalifi, Naim Byar, Yassine Gessime, Saad El Haddad, captain Othmane Maamma, and Yassir Zabiri.
Despite the United States dominating over 75% of possession, Morocco’s disciplined defence and swift counter-attacks proved decisive. Goalkeeper Benchaouch produced a crucial early save, while the Moroccan wingers persistently tested the US backline, guiding the Atlas Cubs to a well-deserved semi-final berth.
