Morocco defeats Argentina 2-0 to claim its first-ever U20 World Cup, making history as the first African nation to lift the trophy since 2009. In a historic upset, Morocco defeated Argentina 2-0 in the U-20 World Cup final in Chile, securing the nation’s first-ever title at any FIFA age-group level. Yassir Zabiri, currently playing for FC Famalicao in Portugal, scored both goals in the first half, giving Morocco a lead they would never relinquish.

This victory makes Morocco the first African country to lift the U-20 trophy since Ghana achieved the feat in 2009. Morocco’s path to the final included impressive knockout wins over South Korea, the United States, and France, showcasing a team capable of handling high-pressure matches.

Argentina’s Challenge and Missed Opportunities
Argentina, a powerhouse in youth football aiming for their seventh U-20 title, suffered their first loss of the tournament. The team was without key players Claudio Echeverri (Bayer Leverkusen) and Franco Mastantuono (Real Madrid), but their senior squad remains strong, already qualified for the 2026 World Cup.

Morocco’s triumph highlights the rising standard of African football and could be a confidence booster for the continent heading into future international competitions.

Liverpool Faces Tough Choices: Isak, Salah, or Both on the Bench?

Liverpool’s Attack in Crisis
Liverpool is facing a critical juncture under head coach Arne Slot after a 2-1 home defeat to Manchester United. The spotlight is on forwards Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak, who are underperforming and failing to meet expectations.

The club’s summer overhaul, which included seven new signings totaling around £450 million and the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, has disrupted team chemistry. As a result, even world-class talents like Salah and Isak are struggling to adapt.

Ekitike Shines, Yet Remains Benched
France international Hugo Ekitike has been Liverpool’s most productive forward this season, contributing five goals and one assist in 11 appearances. Despite this, he has been sidelined in favor of Salah and Isak, who collectively have underperformed.

Isak has scored only once and registered one assist since joining from Newcastle, while Salah has just three goals and three assists in 11 appearances. Their lack of defensive contribution also exposes Liverpool’s right side, creating further tactical challenges.

Strategic Decisions Ahead

Slot has the opportunity to rotate players during Liverpool’s Champions League clash against Eintracht Frankfurt. Dropping Salah, Isak, or both could restore balance and allow Ekitike to reclaim a starting role. However, Slot must weigh short-term tactical gains against long-term team morale.

The real test will come in high-stakes matches, such as upcoming games against Real Madrid in the Champions League and Manchester City in the Premier League. Slot must decide whether to stick with star power or reward performance and form — a choice that could define Liverpool’s season.