FIFA U-20 World Cup: The Young Atlas Lions Roar All the Way to the Final
The Pacific breeze was not enough to cool the Moroccan flame.
At the Estadio Elías Figueroa in Valparaíso, the Young Atlas Lions of coach Mohamed Ouahbi stood tall against France, prevailing in a thrilling and hard-fought semifinal that kept fans on edge until the final whistle.
After 120 minutes of intense, evenly matched football, Morocco sealed their place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup final following a dramatic 1–1 draw (5–4 on penalties) — a victory both symbolic and historic for Moroccan and African football.
When play resumed after halftime, France coach Bernard Diomède turned to his bench — a move that initially paid off. Substitute Moustapha Dabo, barely on the pitch, set up Lucas Michal for the equalizer (1–1), marking Michal’s fifth goal of the tournament and earning him a share of the top scorer’s lead.
Neither side managed to find a winner, even after the French were reduced to ten men following the sending-off of Rabby Nzingoula in the 87th minute. The tension only grew as the match stretched into extra time.
A goalkeeping gamble that changed everything
“A bold move from Ouahbi — a third goalkeeper enters, and Morocco’s destiny is sealed.”
Injured goalkeeper Benchaouch had to give way to Ibrahim Gomis, and with the game heading towards penalties, coach Ouahbi made a daring decision: he brought on a third goalkeeper, Abdelhakim Mesbahi, moments before the shootout began.
It was a calculated risk — and it paid off.
Morocco held their nerve as two French penalty takers faltered: Gady Beyuku hit the post, and Djylian N’Guessan sent his shot wide. The Young Atlas Lions converted their kicks with composure and confidence to claim a 5–4 shootout victory.
History Made in Valparaíso
“An explosion of joy — Morocco reach their first-ever World Cup final.”
As the final French kick missed its mark, the Moroccan players erupted in celebration.For the first time in their history, the Young Atlas Lions booked a place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup final, writing a new and glorious chapter in Moroccan football.
Next Stop: The Final
On Sunday, the dream continues. The Young Atlas Lions will contest their first-ever FIFA U-20 World Cup final, with the hope of lifting the trophy and bringing continental pride back to Africa.
From Valparaíso to Rabat, a nation — and a continent — will be watching as Morocco’s U-20s roar one last time.
