Morocco Defeat Brazil to Reach U20 World Cup Knockout Stage

Morocco’s U20 national team advanced to the round of 16 at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brazil at the Estadio Nacional in Santiago.

The result marked their second win in the group stage and confirmed their place in the knockout rounds with one game to spare.

The young Atlas Lions started the match with discipline and intensity, matching Brazil’s pace and pressing high from the first whistle.

Despite Brazil dominating possession early, Morocco created the better chances on the counter.

Goalkeeper Yanis Benchawch kept his side level with three crucial saves, including a close-range stop in the 25th minute.

Brazil thought they had earned a penalty in the 33rd minute, but the referee overturned the decision after a VAR review confirmed simulation.

Morocco’s breakthrough came in the 60th minute when Gessime Yassine whipped in a precise cross that Othmane Maamma volleyed into the net to make it 1-0.

The goal boosted Morocco’s confidence, and they continued to push forward.

Just 12 minutes later, Yassine created another decisive moment with a brilliant through ball that found Yassir Zabiri, whose shot deflected off a defender and beat the Brazilian goalkeeper to double the lead.

Brazil pressed hard in the closing stages and finally pulled one back in the 90th minute through Iago Teodoro, who converted a penalty to make it 2-1.

Morocco held firm during stoppage time, showing strong defensive organization to secure a famous win over one of the tournament favourites.

With six points from two games, Morocco have guaranteed a place in the knockout stage and will face Mexico in their final group match on Saturday, October 4, at 21:00 GMT+1.