A fearless start to the campaign
From the opening whistle, the young Moroccans imposed their intensity and determination. Yassir Zabiri set the tone with a clear chance in the 6th minute, while the defense, marshaled by a heroic Zehouani, stood firm against Spanish pressure. Goalkeeper Benchaouch delivered a flawless display, pulling off a string of decisive saves that gave his teammates the confidence to push forward.
Zabiri and Jassim, the night’s heroes
After a balanced first half, Morocco seized control early in the second. In the 54th minute, Zabiri broke the deadlock with a superb low strike across goal that left Spain’s keeper Fran González helpless. Barely four minutes later, a textbook counterattack launched by Othmane Maamar found Yassine Jassim, who coolly slotted home Morocco’s second in the 58th minute, sending Moroccan fans into delirium.
Spain thought they had a way back when two penalties were awarded in the final quarter of an hour, but VAR overturned both decisions, confirming simulation. Morocco even came close to adding a third late on through El Bahraoui (89’).
Top of Group C
With this historic victory, Morocco takes an early lead in Group C ahead of heavyweights Brazil and Mexico. Said Ouahbi’s men will face the Seleção on Thursday before finishing the group stage against Mexico on Sunday.
A generation determined to make history
“We must savor this, but remain humble and focused,” said coach Ouahbi after the match, mindful that this triumph is only the first step. Still, beating one of Europe’s football powerhouses has already sent a powerful message: Morocco is not in Chile to make up the numbers.
With ambition, discipline, and undeniable talent, the Atlas Cubs have announced themselves on the world stage, signaling their intent to write a new and memorable chapter in Morocco’s football history.
Translated from Abderrazzak Boussaid’s French article – le7tv