Morocco got their U20 World Cup Chile 2025 campaign off to a perfect start. Facing Spain in their first group match, the Atlas Lions won with authority (2-0), making a convincing start to the season.

From the kickoff, the Moroccans showed their initiative, pushing La Roja back. In the 14th minute, Fouad Zahouani saved his team by pushing Rayane Belaid's shot off the line. Before that, Yassir Zabiri had already sent shivers through the opposition's defense (6th minute), then intercepted a risky pass from Fran Gonzalez to save an effortless shot (17th minute).

After the half-hour mark, Spain took back control of the game. Peio Canales (35th), Iker Bravo from a free kick (39th) and then Julio Diaz (44th) put the Moroccan defense to the test, but failed to find the target. Yanis Benchaouch, vigilant, also repelled an attempt from Rodrigo Mendoza after the break (52nd).

The turning point of the match came shortly after. From a pinpoint opening by Gessime Yassine (USL Dunkerque), Zabiri slipped behind the Spanish defense and beat Gonzalez with a precise shot (1-0, 54th). A goal against the run of play that galvanized the Atlas Lions.

More incisive, the Moroccans struck again four minutes later. Watford winger Othmane Maamma broke down his right wing before setting up Yassine, this time in a scoring position (2-0, 58th).

Thanks to this controlled victory, Morocco has made the perfect start to its U20 World Cup and has a valuable opportunity in a very tough Group C. The other African representatives play this Monday. Nigeria will face Norway and South Africa will challenge France. The fourth African representative, Egypt, plays on Tuesday, September 30 against New Zealand.