Morocco’s U20 team are through to the semi-finals of the FIFA U20 World Cup after beating the United States 3-1 in the quarter-finals at El Teniente Stadium in Rancagua.
The Atlas Cubs started cautiously, letting the US have plenty of the ball in the early stages. But Morocco showed their counter-attacking threat, with skipper Othmane Maamma causing problems down the flanks. The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when Fouad Zahouani scored, assisted by Maamma who won the Man of the Match Award.
Just before half-time, the US drew level through a penalty converted by Borussia Dortmund youngster Cole Campbell after Moroccan left-back Ali Maamar was judged to have fouled in the box. It was a soft spot-kick, but Campbell made no mistake, sending Morocco into the break with a 1-1 scoreline.
The second half belonged to Morocco. In the 66th minute, Joshua Wynder put through his own net, giving Morocco the lead once more. They sealed the win in the 87th minute when Yassine Gessime capitalised on a defensive mistake to slot home, making it 3-1.
The victory matches the feat of Morocco’s 2005 U20 side under Fathi Jamal, who reached the semi-finals in the Netherlands. Mohamed Wahbi’s team will now face the winner of France or Norway on 15 October.
Morocco’s starting XI saw Yanis Benchaouch in goal, Zahouani, Ismail Bakhty, Ismael Baouf, and Maamar in defence, with Yassine Khalifi, Naim Byar, Gessime, Saad El Haddad, Maamma (captain), and Yassir Zabiri in midfield and attack.
Despite the US enjoying more than 75% possession, Morocco’s organised defence and sharp counters proved decisive. Benchaouch made a key save early on, while the Moroccan wide men constantly troubled US defenders.
