U-20 World Cup: Morocco loses to Mexico in “dead rubber” match

Already confirmed as the winners of Group C, Morocco’s perfect run at the U-20 World Cup came to an end on Saturday with a 0-1 defeat to Mexico.

Mexican Wunderkind Gilberto Mora scored the only goal of the match to qualify El Tri to the knockout stages as Group C runners-up. Mexico were well in control against a heavily rotated Morocco team that had little to play for other than maintaining their perfect record.

Mora stepped up to convert a penalty kick in the 51st minute after a shot attempt went off the outstretched arm of Atlas Lions midfielder Anas Tajaouart. The 16-year-old sent goalkeeper Ibrahim Gomis the wrong way to put the Mexican side ahead.

Mexico dominated the second half and Morocco lacked the chemistry and attacking inspiration to get back into the match, only managing two shots without any on target after halftime.

As the Group C winners, Morocco will face one of the four best ranked third place teams in the Round of 16 on October 9 in Rancagua. The U-20 Africa Cup of Nations runners-up will face either Egypt, Paraguay or the third place team from Group F which will be either Nigeria, Norway or Colombia.