ARGENTINA look to get their record seventh U-20 World Cup title as they take on Morocco in Chile in the early hours of Monday morning.
The African side are set to play in their first final since the tournament’s creation in 1977.
Morocco’s historic run
The Atlas Cubs were dealt with an incredibly tough group as they had to face teams favourite for the competition in Brazil, Spain and Mexico.
However, they already qualified for the knockouts after two matches in Group C. They managed to upset Spain 2-0 in their opener against a side that featured players from Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
A few days later, they beat the odds again as they beat one of the favourites Brazil 2-1.
Manager Mohamed Ouahbi made nine changes from the side that beat the Seleção for the final group game against Mexico which they lost 1-0.
Morocco were drawn against South Korea in the round of 16, which they won again 2-1 as Yassir Zabiri got his third of tournament to set up a tie with the USA.
The Americans had just dispatched Italy 3-0 but Morocco continued their fairytale run as they put USA aside in the quarters.
Gessime Yassine rounded off a 3-1 victory late on to secure the victory and a place in the semi-final.
They had just conceded three goals all tournament up until the semis- all of which are penalties.
The Atlas Cubs just had France in their way between them and a historic final.
In a dramatic match, Ouahbi’s side edged the French on penalties 5-4 in a match which had everything including own goals, red cards and penalties in a gripping 120 affair.
Argentina look to continue their historic youth legacy
Argentina have made easy work of the U-20 World Cup so far as they have won every single game.
It started with a 3-1 win over Cuba in the opener, even while being down to 10 men from the 10th minute.
The Young Albiceleste then comfortably beat Australia 4-1 before squeezing past Italy thanks to a goal from defender Dylan Gorosito.
The Argentines continued in ruthless fashion in the knockouts after they smashed Nigeria 4-0 before beating 9-man Mexico 2-0 in the quarters.
Yesterday, they defeated Colombia, who gave them their toughest test of the tournament so far.
Mateo Silvetti of Inter Miami came off the bench for the 4th time in the tournament and netted the winner with 20 minutes to go, which took his tally to three in this World Cup.
Eighteen years after their last appearance in a final, manager Diego Placente will be hoping they can replicate what Sergio Aguero and co did in 2007.
Winning this tournament can give opportunities and recognition for players that may not have had it otherwise. It can transform careers, so what have the previous golden ball winners gone on to do?
