Morocco booked their place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup final after a tense 6–5 penalty shootout victory over France, following a gripping 1-1 draw after 120 minutes at the Elías Figueroa Brande Stadium in Valparaíso on Wednesday.
The North Africans took the lead in the 32nd minute when a penalty from Yassir Zabiri deflected off French defender Lisandru Olmeta and was recorded as an own goal.
France, however, fought back after the interval, with Lucas Michal levelling the score in the 59th minute.
Morocco’s evening took an early blow in the second half when first-choice goalkeeper Yanis Benchaouch was forced off injured and replaced by Ibrahim Gomis.
Despite the setback, the Atlas Cubs held firm as both teams pressed for a winner in regular time.
France were reduced to 10 men during the first period of extra time after Rabby Nzingoula picked up a second yellow card, shifting momentum in Morocco’s favour.
Yet, neither side could capitalise, with Othmane Maamma missing a notable chance for Morocco in the closing stages.
With the deadlock unbroken after 120 minutes, the tie was settled from the spot.
Morocco held their nerve, converting all six of their penalties through Younes El Bahraoui, Ilias Boumassaoudi, Zabiri, Mohamed Hamony, Saad El Haddad and Byar. France missed one crucial effort, sealing their exit.
Wild celebrations erupted among the Moroccan supporters, who heavily populated the stands in Valparaíso, as the team advanced to their first-ever U-20 World Cup final.
Morocco will now await the winner of the second semi-final between Colombia and Argentina, while France will contest the third-place play-off.
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