The Moroccan national under-20 football team has achieved a historic and unprecedented feat by qualifying for the final of the FIFA U-20 World Cup being held in Chile, in an epic and tense semifinal. Actually this came after a thrilling and hard-fought victory over France in a penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw at the end of regular and extra time, in the semifinal match held on Wednesday evening at the Elias Figueroa Brander Stadium in the city of Valparaíso, in central Chile.
After 120 minutes of intensity, the score remained a tight 1-1, forcing a dramatic finish where the Atlas Cubs demonstrated unbreakable mental strength.
The match started off in unfortunate fashion for France. The only goal of the 90 regulation minutes came in the 31st minute, after a penalty in favor of Morocco.
Although Yassir Zabiri's shot was saved, the rebound ended up hitting the French goalkeeper, Lisandru Olmeta, who inadvertently sent the ball into his own net. The 1-0 score reflected a fiercely contested first half where Moroccan pressure was relentless.
France, one of the tournament favorites, responded in the second half. The equalizer came in the 59th minute through Lucas Michal, whose crucial goal forced extra time.
Although the French tried to capitalize on their momentum and Morocco played more cautiously, the score remained unchanged during the 30 additional minutes, thanks largely to the solidity of both goalkeepers.
Fate was decided in the penalty shootout. The pressure was immense, but Morocco displayed remarkable composure. After a series of flawless executions, it was the Moroccan goalkeeper's save against the final French shot that unleashed euphoria.
With a final result of 4-2 in the penalties, Morocco U-20 makes history by securing their place in the U-20 World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the clash between Colombia and Argentina. The euphoric Moroccan team deserves to cruise to the final owing to its commitment and resilience.
The match was attended by a considerable number of Moroccan expatriates living in Chile, as well as several supporters of the Atlas Lions and Cubs who did not hesitate to travel thousands of kilometers to cheer the national team in this world tournament.