Morocco Stuns Argentina to Win Historic U-20 World Cup

Morocco’s young Atlas Lions etched their names into football history on Sunday night, defeating Argentina 2–0 to win the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup — the nation’s first-ever FIFA title. The triumph also makes Morocco only the second African country, after Ghana in 2009, to lift the coveted trophy.

The final, held at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, Chile, saw a disciplined and courageous Moroccan side rise to the occasion. Yassir Zabiri once again proved to be the hero, opening the scoring in the 12th minute with a stunning free kick before sealing the victory midway through the second half with a composed finish.

Argentina, chasing their seventh U-20 crown, dominated possession but struggled to breach Morocco’s resilient defence. Captain Ismael Baouf marshalled the backline superbly, while goalkeeper Youssef Benchaa made crucial saves to preserve the lead. Morocco’s tactical precision and sharp counterattacks repeatedly exposed Argentina’s backline, leaving the South Americans frustrated.

The path to glory was far from easy for the North African side. Morocco overcame Spain, Brazil, South Korea, and the United States before edging France on penalties in the semi-finals. Their only setback came in the group stage against Mexico, a defeat that seemed to ignite their eventual march to glory.

The victory is another milestone in Morocco’s impressive football ascent, coming just three years after their senior men’s team became the first African nation to reach a FIFA World Cup semi-final in Qatar. For Argentina, the loss was a bitter one; despite an unbeaten run leading up to the final, they failed to find their rhythm and saw their frustration boil over with several yellow cards and a denied penalty appeal following a VAR review.

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles also featured in the tournament but exited in the Round of 16 after a heavy defeat to Argentina.

Morocco’s U-20 World Cup triumph stands as a proud moment for African football — a night that will be remembered for the grit, flair, and determination of the continent’s new champions.