U20 World Cup: Morocco falls to Mexico but keeps top spot in group
After two remarkable victories against Spain and Brazil, the Atlas Lion Cubs hoped to close out the U20 World Cup group stage on a perfect note. However, the third match went in Mexico’s favor, as the North Americans claimed a 1-0 win, handing Morocco its first defeat of the tournament.
The game began evenly, with both sides showing determination. Morocco, under coach Mohamed Ouahbi, looked more enterprising in the first half and managed to control the pace, though they failed to capitalize on their chances. The score remained goalless at halftime.
After the break, Mexico, under pressure to win in order to keep their qualification hopes alive, raised their intensity. More aggressive and clinical, the young Aztecs broke the deadlock in the 51st minute with a penalty converted by Gilberto Mora. From that moment on, Morocco struggled to respond and were largely outplayed in both intensity and statistics: Mexico recorded twelve shots, including four on target, compared to only five attempts from the Moroccans, two of which were on goal.
Despite the setback, the essential objective was achieved. With six points, the Atlas Lion Cubs finish first in Group C and advance to the knockout stage in style. Mexico, second with five points, also qualifies for the Round of 16, along with Spain, who defeated Brazil 1-0 in the group’s other match — a result that surprisingly sends the Brazilian team home early.
Translated from Abderrazzak Boussaid’s French article – le7tv
