U.S. U-20 Team Falls to Morocco in World Cup Quarterfinals

Rancagua, Chile — The U.S. Under-20 men’s national team faced a disappointing exit from the FIFA U-20 World Cup on Sunday, falling 3-1 to Morocco in the quarterfinals. This marks the fifth consecutive tournament where the Americans have been eliminated at this stage.

Despite dominating possession with 73 percent, the U.S. struggled to convert that control into scoring opportunities, managing just three shots on target throughout the match. “It’s frustrating to have so much possession and not create clear chances,” said coach Marko Mitrovic.

Morocco took the lead in the 31st minute when Fouad Zahouani scored after a quick counterattack. Othmane Maamma assisted Zahouani’s goal, finishing a well-placed cross despite U.S. defenders being in position. However, the Americans equalized just before halftime, with Cole Campbell successfully converting a penalty after Nolan Norris was fouled in the box.

After the break, Morocco regained the lead in the 67th minute, with a long throw-in causing chaos in the U.S. defense. The ball deflected off Joshua Wynder and into the net for an own goal, prompting urgency from the American side.

Francis Westfield nearly equalized with a diving header, but it was Luke Brennan’s missed opportunity late in the game that proved costly, as his shot went high from a good position. Morocco secured their victory with a third goal in the 87th minute when Ilias Boumassaoudi took advantage of a mix-up between Taha Habroune and goalie Adam Beaudry.

While the U.S. players return to their clubs, Morocco will advance to the semifinals to face either France or Norway.