What a whirlwind ride it’s been for the United States U20 squad at the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile. After dazzling fans with a series of commanding performances—including a clinical 3-0 triumph over Italy in the round of 16—hopes soared that this could be the year the Americans finally broke through to the semifinals. But on a dramatic Sunday evening in Rancagua, those dreams were dashed by a determined Morocco side, who clinched a 3-1 victory to book their own historic place in the final four.
Let’s set the stage: The Americans arrived at the quarterfinals riding high, having dominated the group stage and dispatched Italy with style. Emerging star Benjamin Cremaschi had become the talk of the tournament, while the team’s resolute defending and swift attacking play turned plenty of heads. Their quarterfinal opponents, Morocco, were no slouches either. The North Africans had survived a brutal group containing Mexico, Spain, and Brazil, finishing atop the pile before edging past South Korea 2-1 in a tense round of 16 battle.
With both teams hungry for a breakthrough, anticipation was sky-high. The match, broadcast live across the United States via Fubo and globally on FIFA+, promised fireworks—and it delivered. Morocco, seeking their first-ever U20 World Cup semifinal berth, started the more composed of the two sides, probing the American defense with patient buildup play and sharp movement off the ball.
The first half, however, was a tightly contested affair. Morocco drew first blood, capitalizing on a momentary lapse in the American backline. Yet, the U.S. responded with resilience. Cole Campbell, whose work rate and composure have been a hallmark of this American run, found the equalizer before halftime. The goal—coming at a crucial juncture—rekindled American hopes and set the stage for a pulsating second half.
But as the teams emerged from the tunnel, it was Morocco who seized the initiative. The North Africans pressed higher, forcing errors and pinning the U.S. deep in their own half. The turning point arrived midway through the second half, and it was a cruel twist for the Americans. Under pressure from a Moroccan attack, Joshua Wynder inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, giving Morocco a 2-1 lead. The U.S. pushed forward in search of another equalizer, but as the clock ticked down, Morocco struck again—this time on a rapid counterattack that left the American defense exposed. The third goal, coming late, effectively sealed the contest.
With the final whistle, Morocco’s bench erupted in celebration, while the Americans slumped to the turf, their journey at an end. For the U.S., it marked a fifth consecutive quarterfinal exit—an admirable streak of consistency, but one that will undoubtedly sting given the promise shown by this year’s group.
Reflecting on the campaign, it’s clear the United States made significant strides. Their group stage dominance and emphatic win over Italy highlighted a team capable of competing with the world’s best. Benjamin Cremaschi’s emergence as a midfield dynamo, Cole Campbell’s knack for big goals, and the defensive leadership of Joshua Wynder all bode well for the future of the U.S. program. Yet, as has so often been the case at this level, the margin for error proved razor-thin. One unfortunate own goal, one swift counterattack—sometimes, that’s all it takes.
Morocco, for their part, continue to defy expectations. Having topped a group featuring perennial powers Mexico, Spain, and Brazil, and now dispatching the United States, they’ve proven their mettle on the world stage. The North Africans head to the semifinals brimming with belief, set to face the winner of the Norway vs France clash. Their run, built on disciplined defending and clinical finishing, has captured the imagination of fans back home and across the footballing world.
The broader tournament narrative remains just as compelling. Colombia and Argentina have already booked their places in the semifinals after thrilling quarterfinal victories—Colombia outlasting Spain 3-2 in a classic, and Argentina dispatching Mexico 2-0 in Santiago. With Morocco now joining them, and one of Norway or France set to round out the final four, the stage is set for a dramatic conclusion to what’s been a captivating World Cup.
For American supporters, there’s plenty to be proud of. Five straight quarterfinal appearances is no small feat, and the experience gained by this group will serve them well in years to come. The heartbreak of Rancagua may linger, but the lessons learned could prove invaluable as the U.S. prepares to host the senior World Cup in 2026. As for Morocco, their adventure continues, and the world will be watching closely to see just how far this golden generation can go.
Looking ahead, the semifinals promise even more drama. Morocco will face either Norway or France on Wednesday, October 15 in Valparaíso, while Argentina and Colombia will square off on Thursday, October 16 in Santiago. Both matches will be streamed live on FIFA+, ensuring fans across the globe can witness every twist and turn.
Soccer, as always, is a game of moments—moments of brilliance, heartbreak, and joy. On this occasion, Morocco seized theirs, and the United States will have to wait for another chance. But for all the young stars who graced the pitch in Chile, the future looks brighter than ever.
As the tournament edges closer to its grand finale on October 19, anticipation builds. Will Morocco’s fairytale run continue? Can Argentina or Colombia claim another world title? Or will a European power emerge from the other semifinal? One thing’s for sure: the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup has delivered unforgettable drama, and the best may be yet to come.
