2025 FIFA U20 World Cup: Morocco beat favourite France to reach final

Morocco are through to the final of the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile after overcoming France in the semi-final.

The Atlas Cubs took the lead in the 31st minute following a VAR review. Baouf was brought down inside the box, prompting head coach Mohamed Ouahbi to use the green card to request a check.

The referee awarded a penalty, and although Zabiri’s strike hit the post, the ball ricocheted off French goalkeeper Lisandru Olmeta and into the net.

Morocco dominated much of the first half, with Maamma twice going close, first curling narrowly over the bar, then missing from close range after a fine build-up by Yassine Gessime.

The Moroccan midfield was compact and well-drilled, effectively cutting off France’s attacking supply. France managed just one shot on target, comfortably dealt with by goalkeeper Yanis Benchaouch.

France found their equaliser in the 58th minute after a defensive lapse allowed Lucas Michal to tap in. Benchaouch made a vital save moments later to keep Morocco level, but was forced off due to injury, with Gomis replacing him.

Morocco continued to press late in the game, Maamma curling just wide in the 90th minute.

Extra time was tense, with few clear-cut chances. France came close in the 102nd minute before being reduced to ten men five minutes later, as Nzingoula received a second yellow card for pulling Gessime’s shirt.

Despite the advantage, Morocco couldn’t find a breakthrough, though Maamma again threatened with a curling effort in the 112th minute.

France nearly snatched it in the 118th minute, but Morocco’s defence held firm, and a late VAR handball review was dismissed.

Coach Ouahbi made a strategic late substitution, bringing on Mesbah for Gomis ahead of the penalty shootout.

The match ended 1-1 after extra time, and Morocco held their composure in the shootout to triumph 5-4 against France and book their place in the final.

The Atlas Cubs will face either Colombia or Argentina in the championship match on Monday, October 20.