The U-20 Lions of the Atlas were defeated in the final of the Africa U-20 Cup of Nations by South Africa (1-0), missing the opportunity to repeat the feat of the U-17 team. Despite an ambitious start and a desire to dominate the match, Mohamed Ouahbi’s players struggled against a well-organized South African team, strong in duels and tactically disciplined. Morocco tried to impose its possession-based, patient style of play, but couldn’t convert its chances.
The first half offered opportunities on both sides. Benmassoudi came close to opening the scoring in the 22nd minute after a nice move initiated by Dahhak, while Benchaouch had to intervene on a strike from the opposition shortly after. In the second half, Abdellaoui missed a clear chance, and Zahouani saved his team on a quick counterattack from the South Africans. The match was ultimately decided in the 70th minute when Gomolemo Kekana beat Benchaouch and scored the decisive goal.
Driven by the stakes, the Moroccans tried to equalize in the final minutes, but to no avail. Maamma missed the last chance to level the score, sealing the outcome of the match. Morocco therefore finishes as runner-up in the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, after a solid but unfinished campaign against a realistic and determined South Africa.
