Yassir Zabiri Leads Morocco to Historic U-20 World Cup Win

Morocco defeated Argentina 2-0 to win the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Santiago, Chile, on October 19, 2025. Yassir Zabiri scored both goals in the final, delivering the country’s first youth world championship.

Zabiri opened the scoring with a 12th-minute free kick, curling the ball into the corner past Argentina’s goalkeeper. He doubled Morocco’s lead in the 29th minute, finishing a cross from Othmane Maamma to seal the victory.

Zabiri’s Double Secures Morocco’s Title

Argentina entered the final unbeaten, with six straight wins and only two goals conceded. Morocco, however, disrupted their rhythm early. Zabiri’s free kick stunned the South Americans, marking the first time they trailed in the tournament.

Despite dominating possession with over 70% in the first half, Argentina failed to create clear chances. Morocco’s compact defense absorbed pressure and struck quickly on the counterattack. Ibrahim Gomis made key saves to preserve the lead.

Argentina managed just two shots in the first half, none on target, while Morocco had four attempts with three on goal. Gianluca Prestianni posed the most danger for Argentina, but Morocco’s defense neutralized his influence in the final third.

Coach Diego Placente attempted tactical changes, including an early substitution in the 34th minute, but they failed to shift the momentum. Morocco maintained control and confidence, carrying their two-goal lead into halftime.

Morocco Withstands Argentina’s Pressure

Argentina pushed forward aggressively after the break, searching for a way back into the match. A dangerous free kick from Maher Carrizo narrowly missed the target, while a VAR check for a possible handball against Morocco ended without a penalty.

Frustration grew for the Albiceleste as yellow cards mounted in the final minutes. Morocco’s substitutions, including replacing Maamma with Ilias Boumasssaoudi, helped manage the closing stages and maintain control.

The Atlas Cubs’ disciplined defensive shape held firm under intense pressure, frustrating Argentina’s attack and limiting them to few meaningful chances even as the match approached full time.

Historic Moment for African Football

Morocco’s triumph marked their first appearance in a U-20 World Cup final and their first title. It also ended Africa’s 16-year wait for a champion at this level, with Ghana being the last to win in 2009.

The Atlas Cubs had a remarkable run to the final, topping a group that included Spain and Brazil, defeating South Korea in the round of 16, the United States in the quarterfinals, and France in a dramatic semifinal shootout.

Argentina, seeking a record-extending seventh title and first since 2007, fell short despite a dominant campaign. Alejo Sarco, their top scorer with four goals, was kept quiet in the final.

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi’s defensive strategy and tactical discipline proved decisive. Morocco limited Argentina’s scoring chances despite their possession dominance, showcasing the effectiveness of their game plan.

With Zabiri’s brace, Morocco secured a historic victory and wrote a new chapter for African football. The Atlas Cubs’ 2-0 triumph over Argentina will be remembered as one of the defining moments in youth football history.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is Yassir Zabiri?

He is a Moroccan forward who plays for Famalicão. He scored both goals in the U-20 World Cup final against Argentina.

Q2: Where was the final played?

The match took place at Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, Chile, on October 19, 2025.

Q3: When was the last time an African team won the U-20 World Cup?

The last African champion was Ghana in 2009. Morocco ended the 16-year drought in 2025.

Q4: Who did Morocco defeat on their path to the title?

They beat South Korea in the round of 16, the United States in the quarterfinals, and France in the semifinals before facing Argentina.

Q5: How many titles has Argentina won?

Argentina has won six U-20 World Cup titles. They were aiming for a seventh in 2025.