Morocco fall to Mexico at U20 World Cup but march into knockout stages

Morocco slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat to Mexico in Valparaíso on Saturday but still advanced to the knockout stages of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025™ as Group C winners.

A second-half penalty from Gilberto Mora separated the sides in a cagey contest, though the result did little to dent the Atlas Cubs’ impressive start to the tournament, which had already seen them beat Spain and Brazil.

Both teams struggled to carve out chances in a tight first half.

The breakthrough came six minutes after the restart when Obed Vargas’ strike struck the arm of defender Anas Tajaouart, prompting the referee to point to the spot. 

Mora stepped up confidently and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to put Mexico ahead.

Morocco thought they had equalised moments later when Younes El Bahraoui turned in a rebound from close range, but the assistant referee’s flag went up for offside.

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi’s side pushed hard in the closing stages, with Gessime Yassine and Othmane Maamma both going close, but Mexico held firm to secure second place in the group.

Despite the defeat, Morocco’s earlier wins ensured they topped Group C with six points - one more than second placed Mexico.

The North Africans progressed to the Round of 16, where they will meet one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.

Morocco will take on the third-placed side from Group A, B or F.

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi praised his players’ effort but admitted his side must sharpen up for the knockout phase.

“It was a difficult game — Mexico were very organised and made it hard for us,” said Ouahbi.

“We created chances and fought until the end. The important thing is that we are through, and we will prepare to be better in the next round.”

Morocco’s run so far has turned heads across Africa, with the young Atlas Cubs showing the same tactical discipline and technical flair that has come to define the country’s football resurgence in recent years.