Hakim Mesbahi, from benchwarmer to glory: The incredible journey of the Moroccan goalkeeper at the U20 World Cup

The incredible journey of Hakim Mesbahi

Hakim Mesbahi/@TRT

Moroccan goalkeeper Hakim Mesbahi lived a true fairy tale on Thursday during the semi-final clash against France in the U20 World Cup.

Initially the third-choice keeper, his chances of featuring in this high-stakes encounter against the "Bleuets" were slim. Yet, he emerged as one of the key architects behind the "Lionceaux" booking their ticket to the competition's grand finale.

Following an injury to first-choice keeper Yanis Benchaouch, substitute Ibrahim Gomis stepped up and held his ground, before handing over the gloves to Hakim Mesbahi for the nerve-wracking penalty shootout.

The Moroccan shot-stopper sealed the deal by saving Djylian N'Guessan's final spot-kick, sending his team through to the final.

What should you know about Hakim Mesbahi?

A product of AS FAR, the 20-year-old is still waiting for his break with the first team, a challenge made tougher by the presence of more experienced competitors.

He has already accumulated 19 appearances with the "Lionceaux", conceding 21 goals and keeping 9 clean sheets.

Morocco's U20s defeated France to make the nation's first-ever World Cup final ✨

Abdelhakim Mesbahi was the hero, saving the decisive penalty in the 5-4 shootout 🧤

He was the third goalkeeper used by Morocco in the match 😲 pic.twitter.com/ifSS8AdG5k

— DW Sports (@dw_sports) October 16, 2025