Morocco made history on Monday by winning the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, defeating Argentina 2–0 in a landmark victory that crowned them the first Arab and only the second African nation ever to lift the trophy, after Ghana in 2009.
Rising star Yassir Zabiri delivered both goals in the first half — a curling free-kick in the 12th minute and a calm finish in the 29th — sealing Morocco’s maiden global title and earning himself the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer with five goals.
Argentina dominated possession but were frustrated by Morocco’s disciplined defence and compact structure. “Argentina controlled the ball, but Morocco controlled the match,” said analyst Luis Alvarez, noting the North Africans’ precision and poise under pressure.
Experts hailed the triumph as a watershed moment for Arab and African football. “Morocco’s win reflects a decade of strategic investment in youth development,” said sports researcher Dr. Helena Wu, pointing to the success of the Mohammed VI Football Academy in producing world-class talent.
The final, played before 43,000 fans in Santiago’s Estadio Nacional, capped Morocco’s remarkable campaign, which included a dramatic semi-final win over France. As fireworks erupted back home, the Atlas Cubs’ victory signaled not just a golden night — but the rise of a new force in world football.
