Morocco and Argentina joined Japan in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025™ after impressive victories on Wednesday.
The Atlas Cubs shocked Brazil 2-1, while Argentina eased past Australia 4-1 to join Japan among the early qualifiers.
At Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos, Morocco delivered one of the tournament’s standout performances.
After a tight first half, Othmane Maamma opened the scoring with a superb scissor kick before Yassir Zabiri doubled the lead with a clinical strike.
Brazil pulled one back through captain Iago Teodoro’s late penalty, but the Africans held firm to top Group C and underline their growing reputation on the world stage.
In Group D, Argentina wasted no time imposing themselves against Australia.
Alejo Sarco netted in the third minute, followed by Tomas Perez’s close-range finish just before halftime.
Though Daniel Bennie gave Australia hope with a second-half strike, the Young Albiceleste finished strongly.
Ian Subiabre and Santino Andino struck in stoppage time to seal a commanding 4-1 win, ensuring Argentina’s progression with two victories from two matches.
Elsewhere, history was made as Cuba collected their first-ever U-20 World Cup point.
Trailing 2-0 against ten-man Italy, Michael Camejo converted two second-half penalties to secure a famous 2-2 draw.
In Group C, Mexico once again showed resilience, with 16-year-old Gilberto Mora scoring twice – including a late equalizer – in a 2-2 stalemate against Spain.
The results leave Group C finely poised, with Morocco already through, while Brazil, Mexico, and Spain battle for survival.
In Group D, Argentina advance alongside early qualifiers Japan, as Italy and Cuba keep their hopes alive.
With shocks, late drama, and landmark moments, Chile 2025 continues to showcase rising stars and unforgettable stories.