Morocco has qualified for the grand final of the FIFA U-20 World Cup after overcoming France in an epic and tense semifinal that was decided by a penalty shootout.After 120 minutes of intensity, the s...
Morocco has qualified for the grand final of the FIFA U-20 World Cup after overcoming France in an epic and tense semifinal that was decided by a penalty shootout.
After 120 minutes of intensity, the score remained a tight 1-1, forcing a dramatic finish where the young "Atlas Lions" demonstrated unbreakable mental strength.
The 'Own Goal' That Set the Tone
The match started off in unfortunate fashion for France. The only goal of the 90 regulation minutes came in the 31st minute, after a penalty in favor of Morocco.
Although Yassir Zabiri's shot was saved, the rebound ended up hitting the French goalkeeper, Lisandru Olmeta, who inadvertently sent the ball into his own net. The 1-0 score reflected a fiercely contested first half where Moroccan pressure was relentless.
French Response and Extra Time
France, one of the tournament favorites, responded in the second half. The equalizer came in the 59th minute through Lucas Michal, whose crucial goal forced extra time.
Although the French tried to capitalize on their momentum and Morocco played more cautiously, the score remained unchanged during the 30 additional minutes, thanks largely to the solidity of both goalkeepers.
🏆🇲🇦 MARRUECOS ELIMINÓ A FRANCIA Y ES EL PRIMER FINALISTA DEL MUNDIAL SUB 20.
— Sudanalytics (@sudanalytics_) October 15, 2025
ESPERA POR ARGENTINA O COLOMBIA. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/7567lWLQ5l
Heart-Stopping Penalties
Fate was decided in the penalty shootout. The pressure was immense, but Morocco displayed remarkable composure. After a series of flawless executions, it was the Moroccan goalkeeper's save against the final French shot that unleashed euphoria.
With a final result of 4-2 in the penalties, Morocco U-20 makes history by securing their place in the U-20 World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the clash between Colombia and Argentina. The French desolation contrasts with the euphoria of the African team, deserved finalists for their commitment and resilience.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
📸 JAVIER TORRES - AFP or licensors
Category: General Sports
