After losing the penalty shootout, France was bitterly eliminated in the World Cup semi-finals.

The France U20 squad concluded their U20 World Cup campaign with disappointment, losing 4-5 on penalties to Morocco U20 after both teams were tied 1-1 after an intense 120 minutes.

The semi-final match between France U20 and Morocco U20 started at a high pace and was thrilling right from the opening moments. Considered the stronger side, the young European team took control early, holding possession more and creating several dangerous chances. However, the turning point came in the 32nd minute when Morocco’s Yassir Zabiri’s penalty kick hit the post, rebounded off goalkeeper Lisandru Olmeta, and went into the net, putting France U20 behind.

Following the cruel own goal, coach Bernard Diomede’s players had to push forward to equalize. Despite controlling the game well, France could not break down the tightly organized African defense in the first half.

In the second half, coach Diomede introduced Moustapha Dabo and Tadjidine Mmadi to boost the attack. This change paid off immediately: in the 59th minute, Lucas Michal scored precisely from a pass by Dabo, leveling the score at 1-1. The intense battle continued through the second half and extra time. Even though France U20 played with one less player from the 107th minute after Rabby Nzingoula received a second yellow card, they fought valiantly to push the match to a penalty shootout.

In the penalty shootout, Morocco U20 showed superior composure. Naim Byar, Saad El Haddad, Yassir Zabiri, Ilias Boumassaoudi, and Younes El Bahraoui all scored successfully. On the French side, only four players—Dabo, Bernardeau, Zidane, and Michal—converted their penalties; misses by Djylian N'Guessan and Gady Beyuku ended their dream of reaching the final.

Winning 5-4 in the shootout, Morocco U20, led by coach Mohamed Ouahbi, made history by reaching the U20 World Cup final for the first time. The "Atlas Lions" youth team demonstrated resilient fighting spirit, strong unity, and impressive composure under pressure, especially as underdogs compared to their European opponents.

In contrast to the African team’s jubilation, the French side was left deeply disappointed. France U20, one of the top favorites for the title, exited the tournament with regret despite their relentless effort throughout the full 120 minutes.

With this victory, Morocco U20 will advance to face the winner of the U20 Argentina vs. U20 Colombia match in the final, continuing their historic quest to become the first African team to win the U20 World Cup.

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