Santiago: The Italian media has lauded Morocco’s U-20 national football team for their strategic and historic semi-final victory, particularly highlighting the bold decision to rotate all three goalkeepers during the match.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Corriere dello Sport pointed out that no team in World Cup history has ever utilized all three of its goalkeepers in a single match, marking a pioneering moment for Morocco. The starting goalkeeper, Benchaouch, delivered several crucial saves before sustaining an injury in the 64th minute. His replacement, Gomis, maintained the defense until the 125th minute when coach Mohamed Ouahbi made a strategic decision to introduce Mesbahi, a penalty shootout specialist, just before the end of extra time. This move proved decisive as Mesbahi saved the decisive penalty from N’Guessan.

Calciomercato commended the team’s tactical precision and strategic game management, especially in the way the goalkeepers were used. The newspaper also noted that Morocco’s goal came from a penalty shot by Zabiri. Additionally, Goal.com highlighted Morocco’s impressive journey throughout the tournament, reflecting on their victories over strong teams like Spain, Brazil, South Korea, and the United States. The publication described Morocco’s path as one characterized by fearlessness and a strong mentality.

Fanpage.it celebrated the victory as a “historic achievement,” emphasizing that the Morocco-France match will be forever etched in football history. For the first time, Morocco will compete in a U-20 World Cup final, where they will face Argentina, who secured a spot in the final after a 1-0 win over Colombia. The media outlet underscored the mix of emotion, strategy, and courage that has driven the Moroccan team to this unprecedented accomplishment.

The Moroccan national team is set to play its first-ever World Cup final on Sunday evening in Santiago, aspiring for a victory that could signify a historic milestone for Moroccan football.