The Moroccan U20 national team secured their place in the quarter-finals of the Africa U20 Cup of Nations on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, with a decisive 3-1 victory over Tunisia at the Canal de Suez Stadium in Ismaïlia. This win not only marked a significant achievement for the young Lions of the Atlas but also ensured their spot at the top of Group B, setting the stage for a highly anticipated clash against South Africa in the next round.
In a match filled with tension and regional rivalry, Morocco demonstrated resilience and tactical prowess, despite missing several key players due to injury. The absence of starters, including the dynamic Othmane Maamma, did not deter the team, as they showcased their depth and determination throughout the encounter.
The first half began with Morocco applying pressure on their opponents. Although Tunisia had its moments, it was Morocco that struck first. Ayman Arguigue Safsati, the 18-year-old forward currently playing for SD Huesca B in Spain, opened the scoring with a powerful header in the 44th minute, connecting perfectly with a pinpoint cross from Fouad Zahouani. This goal sent the Moroccan supporters into a frenzy and gave the team a 1-0 lead at halftime.
However, the second half saw a shift in momentum. Tunisia, looking to bounce back, equalized just nine minutes after the break. Anis Dubal capitalized on a defensive lapse from Morocco, firing a shot that deflected off a defender and found its way into the net, leveling the score at 1-1 in the 54th minute. This goal reignited the hopes of the Tunisian side, who had entered the tournament as a last-minute replacement for Côte d'Ivoire.
Despite the setback, Morocco remained composed, quickly regrouping and intensifying their efforts. The Lions of the Atlas responded with a series of attacks, showcasing their offensive capabilities while maintaining a solid defensive structure that kept Tunisia at bay. The Moroccan defense, led by a disciplined backline, effectively neutralized Tunisia's attempts to build momentum.
As the match approached its final minutes, Morocco's persistence paid off. In the 86th minute, Smail Bakhty found himself in the right place at the right time, pouncing on a loose ball in the box after a free-kick situation. With a precise left-footed shot, Bakhty restored Morocco's lead, sending the fans into jubilation.
But the excitement didn't end there. Just moments later, in the second minute of stoppage time, Jones El Abdellaoui capped off the victory with a well-executed counter-attack. After receiving a pass, he calmly slotted the ball into the net, sealing the match at 3-1 for Morocco. This late goal not only confirmed the win but also highlighted the team's ability to capitalize on crucial moments.
With this victory, Morocco finished at the top of Group B, a testament to their strong performance throughout the tournament. They will face South Africa on Monday, May 12, 2025, in a quarter-final showdown that promises to be an exciting encounter. The Moroccan team will need to elevate their game even further if they hope to advance to the semi-finals.
The match against Tunisia was not just a game; it was a display of skill, determination, and the spirit of competition that defines African football. As the Lions of the Atlas prepare for their next challenge, the excitement among fans continues to build, with hopes high for a successful campaign in the tournament.
In summary, Morocco's 3-1 victory over Tunisia was a significant milestone in their U20 Africa Cup of Nations journey. The team's ability to overcome adversity and perform under pressure bodes well for their future matches. With a blend of young talent and tactical discipline, the Lions of the Atlas are poised to make a deep run in the tournament, as they aim for glory on the continental stage.
