In a match that had everything from defensive grit to a single moment of brilliance, Mexico's under-20 squad defeated Morocco 1-0 on Friday evening in Valparaíso, Chile, securing their spot in the knockout stages of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup. The game, played under the lights at Estadio Elías Figueroa Brander, saw Mexico's Gilberto Mora emerge as the hero with the only goal of the night, a well-taken strike in the first half that ultimately earned him MVP honors.
From the outset, both teams came out swinging—Morocco, riding high after upsets over Brazil and Spain in prior group matches, pressed hard for an early lead. Indeed, their attacking flair, which had netted them four goals across those two games, put Mexico's backline under constant pressure. However, Mexico's defense held firm, much like they did in their gritty 2-2 draw against Spain just days earlier. Mora's goal came from a quick counter, slipping past a tiring Moroccan midfield around the 28th minute. It was a reminder of how these young talents can turn a game on a dime.
Moreover, the second half dragged into a tense affair, with Morocco dominating possession but failing to convert chances. Substitutions flew in from both benches—Mexico shoring up the middle, Morocco throwing bodies forward in desperation. Yet, for all their possession, the North Africans couldn't break through, their frustration evident in a couple of late yellow cards. This victory moves Mexico to seven points in Group C, topping the table ahead of Morocco's four. Qualification is now all but assured for El Tri, but not without some anxious moments that exposed vulnerabilities in their attack.
Looking back, the tournament's been full of surprises already—Morocco's earlier wins had them pegged as dark horses, only to stumble here against a resilient Mexico side. As the group stage wraps up, one can't help but wonder how these narrow escapes will shape the deeper runs in this unpredictable competition.