Valpara­so: The French media has reacted to Morocco’s sensational performance against France in the U-20 World Cup semi-final, marking a historic moment for the Atlas Cubs as they advanced to their first-ever final in the competition. “Morocco will play its first-ever U-20 World Cup final and could become the 14th nation to etch its name in the competition’s history,” wrote L’€š¬…¡¬°quipe, reflecting on the excitement surrounding Morocco’s achievement.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Morocco’s victory came after a tense penalty shootout, with Moroccan goalkeeper Abdelhakim Mesbahi playing a pivotal role after being brought on just before the end of extra time. The French team, known as the Bleuets, fought hard but ultimately could not overcome Mesbahi’s decisive saves. The article highlights how the Atlas Cubs’ performance, along with coach Mohamed Ouahbi’s strategic decision-making, has set the stage for their upcoming final against Argentina.

Le Figaro described the outcome as a “cruel setback” for the French team, noting that Morocco’s victory offered a sense of redemption following their defeat to France in the 2022 World Cup semi-final. The paper praised coach Ouahbi’s tactical brilliance in deploying his third-choice goalkeeper at a critical moment.

Le Monde reported on the disappointment faced by the French U-20 team, who lost their opportunity to become world champions after falling to Morocco in the semi-finals in Valpara­so, Chile. The publication recounted the dramatic penalty shootout, where Morocco’s strategic goalkeeper substitution played a key role.

Ouest-France captured the essence of Morocco’s triumph with a headline stating, “No final for the Bleuets,” while noting the Atlas Cubs’ continued journey towards a potential world title, a first in Moroccan football history. Footmercato commended Morocco’s “almost flawless” campaign, highlighting the intensity and determination that earned them a spot in the final against Argentina.

In another detailed account, 20Minutes emphasized the pivotal moment when Djylian N’Guessan’s shot was expertly saved by Mesbahi, who had studied his opponents’ techniques. CNEWS.FR applauded Morocco’s “incredible performance,” noting the unprecedented tactic of utilizing all three registered goalkeepers during the match, culminating in a penalty shootout win against France.