2025 FIFA U20 World Cup: Morocco begin campaign with impressive 2-0 victory against Spain

Morocco’s U20 men’s national team made a dream start to their FIFA U20 World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 win over European heavyweights Spain on Sunday at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago, Chile.

Spain dominated possession in the first half, controlling nearly 67% of the ball and outshooting Morocco 10 to 8, but the North Africans stayed compact and resilient to keep the score level at halftime.

The breakthrough came in the 54th minute when Tassir Zabiri finished clinically from the centre of the box to give Morocco a surprise lead. Spain responded with waves of pressure, creating chances and forcing corners, but Morocco’s defense stood tall.

Just four minutes later, the Young Atlas Lions doubled their advantage. Othmane Maamma provided a clever assist that Gessime Yassine converted with a precise left-footed strike into the top corner, sealing the 2-0 result.

With a two-goal cushion, Morocco grew in confidence, managing the game well and denying Spain any route back into the contest.

This victory marks a triumphant return to the U20 World Cup for Morocco after a 20-year absence, having qualified as runners-up at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.

Morocco will now prepare for tough games against Mexico and Brazil.