The Atlas Cubs have achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the U-20 World Cup finals in Chile, following their victory over France on Wednesday night, a first in the history of Moroccan football.
This exceptional journey, marked by patriotism, audacity, commitment, solidarity, and talent, reflects Morocco’s remarkable progress and its emergence as a rising force on the global football stage.
Mohamed Ouahbi’s side showed their ambition from the group stage onward. They began the tournament with a commanding 2-0 win over Spain, followed by a hard-fought 2-1 victory against tournament favorites Brazil. Despite a narrow 0-1 loss to Mexico, they topped their group.
In the Round of 16, the Atlas Cubs displayed grit and resilience, edging South Korea 2-1 after a tense match. In the quarterfinals, they delivered a standout performance against the U.S., securing a 3-1 win thanks to a rock-solid defense and surgical counterattacks.
But it was in the semi-finals that the young Moroccans truly made history, defeating France in a dramatic penalty shootout (5-4) after a 1-1 draw in extra time.
Combative, disciplined and relentlessly determined, the Atlas Cubs have proven they can compete with — and triumph over — the world’s top football nations.
"We're living a dream come true. We'll celebrate this qualification, but our focus is already on the ultimate goal: winning the final," said the head coach at the end of the semi-final.
"This group embodies true Moroccan values: courage, patriotism, rigor, and ambition. We're determined to see it through and claim the title, and we have everything we need to make it happen."
The Atlas Cubs will play their first-ever World Cup final on Sunday in Santiago, facing Argentina — who eliminated Colombia 1-0 — with the goal of clinching the title and marking a new milestone in Moroccan football. This historic moment is the result of a promising generation that has ignited joy and pride across the nation.
MAP: 16 October 2025
