U-20 World Cup: Morocco Beat United States 3-1 To Book Semifinal Spot
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
The Atlas Lion Cubs of Morocco have advanced to the semifinals of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile after an impressive 3-1 victory over the United States on Sunday.
A brilliant brace from Yassir Zabiri and a late strike by Gessime Yassine sealed Morocco’s place in the last four, where they will face the winner of Monday’s quarterfinal clash between France and Norway.
Despite dominating possession for large periods, the United States struggled to create clear chances, while Morocco executed their counterattacking strategy with precision.
Zabiri opened the scoring in the 31st minute, finishing calmly after a clever assist from team captain Othmane Maamma. The Americans equalised just before halftime when Cole Campbell converted from the penalty spot following a foul in the Moroccan box.
The second half followed a similar pattern — the USA controlling the ball, and Morocco waiting to strike. Their patience paid off in the 66th minute, when poor defending from a long throw-in allowed Zabiri to bundle home his second goal after confusion inside the six-yard box.
The Americans pushed for an equaliser but were undone again late in the match. Goalkeeper Adam Beaudry misjudged a cross and left his line, leading to a loose ball that Ilias Boumassaoudi smartly squared for Yassine, who slotted home to seal the win.
Morocco held firm in the closing stages to confirm their historic passage into the semifinals, continuing their impressive run as Africa’s last representative in the tournament.
The Atlas Lion Cubs will return to action on Wednesday, October 15, when they face either France or Norway for a spot in the final of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
