Aballou: A site made by fans, for fans

Road to Glory: Morocco U20 Eyes a Historic Final Against France in Chile

14 October 2025

Road to Glory: Morocco U20 Eyes a Historic Final Against France in Chile
Morocco's U20 team aims for a historic semifinal win against France in Chile

Historic clash: Morocco U20 chase a first-ever World Cup final against France in Chile

Morocco's under-20 team intensified their preparations for a historic semi-final against France at the World Cup for players born in 2005 and later, hosted in Chile.

This match would put Moroccan football on the verge of landmark glory, potentially guiding a Moroccan side to the final in a global event of this scale.

The semi-final represents the furthest Moroccan teams have ever reached in this competition era, with France posing a tough hurdle for head coach Mohammed Wahbi, who has publicly promised victory and revenge for a past setback.

France had ousted Morocco's senior side in a controversial semi-final at the Qatar World Cup, ending the dream of reaching the final for the Black Eagles.

Morocco lines up with a full squad, missing only Ali Maamar, who is sidelined by cards.

Road to history: from the quarterfinals to the semifinals

Morocco defeated the United States 3-1 in the quarterfinals, with goals from Fouad Zahwani, Yasser Zabiri, and Yasin Jasem, a trio energizing the campaign and earning calls from federation president Fouzi Lekjaa to keep the dream alive.

Head coach Mohammed Wahbi has emphasized calm, conditioning, and a touch of tactical tweaks to manage fatigue after a demanding run through the group phase and knockout rounds. He hinted at possible lineup adjustments if needed but stressed that the core has the hunger for a historic achievement.

The players have expressed a deep desire to avenge their country’s representation and honor the supporters, including Moroccans abroad who are following every move from afar.

The aim is clear: become the first Moroccan team to reach a World Cup final and perhaps face Argentina in a potentially legendary showdown, reminiscent of the senior team’s near-miss in recent years.

Morocco's youngsters have shown maturity and team spirit, and while the road is tough, the nation believes they can rewrite history. The diaspora will rally behind them, hoping for a memorable night in Chile.

The vow

Wahbi said the players promised him before facing France that they would make up for past disappointments and bring the World Cup trophy home, turning a difficult moment into a triumphant chapter for Moroccan football.

Rallying cry

Beyond the individual brilliances, the team’s belief rests on collective effort and respect for a formidable French opponent, with the coach urging calm, humility, and the discipline to execute a game plan that could yield a historic final berth.

Fatigue might force a small reshuffle, but the squad remains determined to push to the final whistle, aiming to keep the dream alive and etch their names in Moroccan football history.

With a large cheering section expected from the Moroccan community, the ambiance in Chile promises to be electric as the world watches a potentially groundbreaking moment for African football.

Trivia and outcome watch

Morocco's youth team is chasing a similar footprint as the senior side’s golden era, turning every training session into a step toward a possible dream finale against a powerhouse opponent.

All eyes remain on the lineup, the physical state of players, and the strategic decisions Wahbi makes to outsmart France and seal a historic semi-final triumph.

And if you can't be in Chile, remember: even the referee would need a passport to keep up with this pace. If Morocco can pull this off, France might want to borrow the trophy; Morocco will simply lend them a smile and a selfie instead.

Endgame jokes

Sniper punchline 1: If they pull this off, France will need a bigger hat for all the dream headlines that will sprout overnight.

Sniper punchline 2: Either way, this young Morocco side already has the nation grinning like a tajine lid after mincemeat of doubt—seasoned with a pinch of courage and a dash of audacity.

Author

Avatar

Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is at stake in the semi-final?

A place in the World Cup final and a historic achievement for Moroccan football at the U20 level.

Who scored in the quarterfinal win over the USA?

Fouad Zahwani, Yasser Zabiri, and Yasin Jasem scored in the 3-1 victory.

Which key player is unavailable and why?

Ali Maamar is suspended and unavailable for the semi-final.

Who is the head coach of the Morocco U20 team?

Mohammed Wahbi leads the squad as head coach.