Morocco Makes History: Atlas Cubs Stuns Argentina To Win 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup

‎In one of the most memorable nights in African football history, Morocco’s U20 team produced a breathtaking performance to defeat Argentina 2–0 and capture the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup title in Santiago, Chile.

‎The triumph marked Morocco’s first-ever victory at any FIFA tournament across all age levels and also made them only the second African nation to lift the U20 World Cup, following Ghana’s historic win in 2009.

‎Zabiri the Hero in Santiago

‎At the iconic Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos, Yassir Zabiri was the name on everyone’s lips.

‎The Moroccan forward struck twice in the first half to seal an unforgettable victory over the six-time champions, Argentina, who had entered the final as overwhelming favourites.

‎The opening stages set the tone for an end-to-end encounter. Morocco started confidently, pressing high and exploiting spaces behind the Argentine defence.

‎In the 12th minute, Zabiri broke free on goal and was brought down by goalkeeper Santino Barbi just outside the box. After a brief VAR review, Barbi escaped with only a yellow card but Morocco made the most of the opportunity.

‎From the resulting free-kick, Zabiri curled a sublime strike into the top corner, giving the Atlas Cubs a dream start.

‎A Second Blow for the Favourites

‎Argentina, which had won all six of its matches leading up to the final while scoring 15 goals and conceding just twice, was stunned. They pushed forward in numbers, but Morocco’s disciplined back line, marshalled by captain Aymane El Bassil, stood firm.

‎Then came another moment of brilliance. Around the 28th minute, midfielder Ismael Baouf won the ball deep in Morocco’s half and released Othmane Maamma down the right.

‎The Watford youngster delivered a perfect cross into the box, which Zabiri met with precision drilling home his second of the night.

‎The Argentines looked shell-shocked. Forwards Mateo Silvetti and Gianluca Prestianni both had chances before halftime, but goalkeeper Ibrahim Gomis pulled off two key saves to preserve Morocco’s 2–0 lead.

‎Argentina’s Frustration and Morocco’s Glory

‎The second half followed a familiar pattern: Argentina dominated possession, but Morocco’s organisation and discipline kept them at bay. Zabiri nearly completed his hat-trick with a curling effort that went just wide, while substitute Ian Subiabre fired over from close range at the other end.

‎As the clock ticked down, every Moroccan clearance was met with roars from the stands. When the final whistle blew, players and fans alike erupted in jubilation a celebration of a new chapter in African football.

‎Post-Match Awards and Reactions

‎Despite the defeat, Argentina’s Santino Barbi was named the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper, while the United States received the Fair Play Award.

‎For Morocco, the individual accolades didn’t stop at victory. Othmane Maamma, who was instrumental in their attacking play, was voted Player of the Tournament, capping off a remarkable campaign.