Morocco’s young lions have delivered one of the biggest shocks of the FIFA U-20 World Cup, securing a stunning 2-1 victory over five-time champions Brazil at Chile’s National Stadium, booking their place in the last 16.
With six points from their first two matches, the Atlas Cubs sends ripples of pride across the continent as it now leads Africa’s charge for youth football glory.
For a continent still seeking its second U-20 world title 16 years after Ghana’s unforgettable 2009 triumph, this victory felt like a glimpse into destiny.
Memories of Qatar 2022
The spirit of Morocco’s sensational 2022 senior World Cup semifinal run was alive and well in Chile.
Just as their senior brothers slayed giants on the global stage, this young Moroccan side has fearlessly embraced the underdog role.
After first edging out European powerhouse Spain in what was dubbed the “group of death,” they have now silenced Brazil in dramatic fashion.
Making their return to the U-20 World Cup after a two-decade absence, Morocco is reminding the world of its footballing magic.
Their last deep run in the tournament was a semifinal appearance in the Netherlands in 2005, and Thursday’s victory suggests history might be repeating itself.
How the giants were slain
Watford’s rising star, Othmane Maamma, opened the scoring for Morocco before Yassir Zabiri doubled the lead in the 76th minute to put the Atlas Cubs in full control. Brazil’s Iago Teodoro pulled one back from the penalty spot deep into stoppage time (90+2), but it was too little, too late to spoil the Moroccan party.
Morocco’s Gessime Yassine was deservedly named Man of the Match for the second consecutive match, for a commanding performance that embodied the grit, poise, and flair of this new generation.
With continental heavyweights Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa all stumbling in their opening matches, Morocco’s success has given African football a much-needed boost.
Their next test comes against Mexico in the final group match.
With confidence sky-high and momentum on their side under Coach Mohamed Ouahbi, the Atlas Cubs are not just winning matches, they are carrying a continent’s hopes and have emerged as shocking contenders for the title.
