In Santiago’s electric Julio Martínez Prádanos National Stadium, Morocco carved their name into football folklore. The Atlas Cubs stunned six-time champions Argentina 2–0 in the FIFA U-20 World Cup final, becoming the first Arab nation and only the second African side in history to lift the prestigious trophy.
From the first whistle, Morocco played with belief and fearlessness. Yassir Zbiri, the 19-year-old forward from FC Famalicão, delivered a performance for the ages, scoring twice inside the opening half-hour. His first, a crisp strike after a slick team move in the 15th minute, set the tone. His second, a calm finish in the 28th, silenced a stunned Argentine defense and sent Moroccan fans into delirium.
Argentina, missing key stars Claudio Echeverri and Franco Mastantuono, fought hard after the break. They pressed relentlessly, but Morocco’s backline held its shape. Every block, tackle, and clearance was met with deafening cheers from the Moroccan faithful. The Atlas Cubs’ composure under pressure reflected not just tactical maturity but a deep sense of national pride.
This victory was the result of a remarkable campaign. Morocco’s road to glory saw them defeat South Korea, the United States, and France before toppling Argentina in the final. In doing so, they ended Africa’s 16-year wait for another U-20 World Cup triumph, following Ghana’s success in 2009.
Back home, the celebrations were instant and euphoric. Streets across Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech erupted with fireworks and chants, as fans danced long into the night. It was more than a football win, it was a moment of unity and hope.
King Mohammed VI, who followed the team’s journey closely, sent a heartfelt message of pride and admiration. “Just as you delighted and brought joy to passionate football fans, you have also filled us with happiness,” he said, praising their harmony, professionalism, and national spirit.
The monarch also commended the coaches, technical staff, and federation officials who built the foundation for this success. His words captured the nation’s emotion, calling this “the first of its kind in Moroccan football history.”
