Yassir Zabiri, the Messi Fan Who Crushed Argentina’s U-20 World Cup Dream

The Estadio Nacional in Chile witnessed one of the biggest upsets in youth football history. Morocco defeated Argentina 2-0 in the U-20 World Cup Final, claiming their first championship at this level thanks to a remarkable performance from Yassir Zabiri — a player who has openly expressed his admiration for Lionel Messi.

The Famalicão forward from Portugal scored both goals that secured the crown for the Atlas Lions, who stunned the football world after navigating a tough group stage that included heavyweights like Brazil, Spain, and Mexico.

Prior to the tournament, Zabiri showed his admiration for Messi in a social media segment where he picked the Argentine captain over legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Pelé, Maradona, and Hakimi. Ironically, fate would make him the one to deny his idol’s country another world title at the youth level.

From the very start of the match, Zabiri tormented the Argentine defense with his pace and confidence. Just 12 minutes in, he opened the scoring with a stunning free kick that left goalkeeper Santino Barbi helpless after committing the foul that led to the play.

Then, in the 29th minute, the No. 21 struck again — this time finishing a lightning-fast counterattack orchestrated by Othmane Maamma with a perfect volley at the far post. Those two goals were enough to seal Morocco’s historic victory and secure their place in world football history.

Closing the tournament with five goals, Zabiri established himself as one of the standout performers of the competition. Despite limited minutes with Famalicão, his breakout showing on the world stage could attract attention from major European clubs.

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