U20MNT / Head coach Marko Mitrović and midfielder Niko Tsakiris

(Rancagua, Chile – October 12, 2025, by Won Jeong) The United States Under-20 Men’s National Team saw its impressive FIFA U-20 World Cup run end with a 3-1 quarterfinal defeat to Morocco on Sunday in Rancagua, Chile. Despite dominating possession and creating more scoring chances, the U.S. couldn’t break down Morocco’s compact defense in the decisive moments.

Head coach Marko Mitrović made only one lineup change from the Round of 16 victory over Italy, bringing in Matthew Corcoran for Taha Habroune. The U.S. controlled the first half with 76% possession and several close opportunities. However, Morocco struck first in the 31st minute, when Yassir Zabiri capitalized on a rebound to give the African side the lead.

The Americans equalized in first-half stoppage time after Nolan Norris was pulled down inside the box. Cole Campbell calmly converted the penalty, scoring his second goal of the tournament to make it 1–1 before halftime.

Morocco regained control in the 66th minute through an own goal by Josh Wynder, after a long throw-in caused confusion in the U.S. defense. Despite heavy pressure from the U.S. in the final 20 minutes, including near-misses from Taha Habroune and Luke Brennan, Morocco sealed the win in the 88th minute when Gessime Yassine finished off a counterattack.

The United States outshot Morocco 14–7 and earned 12 corner kicks to Morocco’s three but couldn’t convert their dominance into goals. With the result, the U.S. missed a chance to reach its first semifinal since 1989.

The team ends the tournament with 17 goals from 10 different players, both new records for the U.S. at the U-20 World Cup. Goalkeeper Adam Beaudry, midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi, and defender Josh Wynder were the only players to start all five matches in Chile.

Morocco advances to the semifinals and will face the winner of Brazil vs. Japan later this week.