AFCON 2025
Morocco made history on Wednesday night, defeating France on penalties to book a place in their first FIFA U-20 World Cup final.
The semi-final at Estadio Elías Figueroa Brander finished 1–1 after extra time, before Morocco held their nerve to win the shootout 5–4.
Substitute goalkeeper Abdelhakim El Mesbahi, brought on specifically for penalties, produced the decisive save to deny Djylian Nguessan and send the North Africans through.
Morocco went ahead in the 32nd minute when France defender Lisandru Olmeta turned the ball into his own net under pressure. France responded after the break, with Lucas Michel equalising in the 59th minute to restore parity.
Neither side could find a winner in extra time, setting up a tense shootout. Morocco converted all five of their kicks before El Mesbahi’s stop sealed the victory.
The result crowns a remarkable tournament for the Atlas Cubs, who topped a group featuring Brazil and Spain, knocked out South Korea in the Round of 16, and defeated the United States 3–1 in the quarterfinals.
Their previous best finish at this level was fourth place in 2005. Now they will face either Argentina or Colombia in Sunday’s final as they chase an unprecedented world title.
Morocco’s run has already captivated fans across Africa and beyond, and one more win could etch their name into football history.
