Morocco’s Othmane Maamma crowned U20 World Cup Golden Ball winner

Moroccan sensation Othmane Maamma has been named the FIFA U20 World Cup Golden Ball winner after inspiring his country to a historic 2–0 victory over Argentina in the final in Chile.

The 20-year-old winger, who plays for English Championship side Watford, was instrumental throughout the tournament, registering one goal and four assists in seven appearances as Morocco became the second African nation to win the U20 World Cup.

His creativity and composure on the ball earned him the tournament’s top individual honour, joining an elite list of past winners that includes Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi, Sergio Agüero, and Paul Pogba.

Maamma capped off a memorable campaign by providing an assist in the final, helping Morocco secure a result that will be celebrated as one of the greatest achievements in the nation’s football history.

Othmane Maamma, the best. ✨🇲🇦#U20WC pic.twitter.com/KRde2kbm2A

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) October 20, 2025

His standout performances have drawn widespread acclaim and significantly boosted his profile ahead of his return to club football in England.

The former Montpellier winger joined Watford during the summer transfer window but has yet to make his debut.

His international success, however, is expected to push him into contention for a first-team role under new Hornets boss Javi Gracia, who replaced Paulo Pezzolano following a poor run of results.

Maamma’s emergence offers Watford a glimmer of optimism in an otherwise turbulent campaign.

With his growing confidence and proven quality on the world stage, the Moroccan Golden Ball winner could soon play a pivotal role in revitalising the Hornets’ season.