Morocco's goalkeeper, Taha Benrhozil celebrating after saving a penalty (© FIFA World Cup/Twitter)

FIFA U17 World Cup

FIFA U-17 World Cup: Morocco’s Benrhozil shines as young Atlas Lions roar into quarterfinals

November 21, 2023, 6:43 PM

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On Tuesday, Morocco secured a spot in the FIFA U-17 World Cup quarter-finals in Indonesia by scoring a stoppage-time equalizer and winning in a penalty shoot-out against IR Iran.

The drama unfolded as Iran’s Hesam Nafari missed a crucial penalty and Morocco’s goalkeeper, Taha Benrhozil saved a twice-taken kick from Kasra Taheri. Fouad Zahouani then seized the opportunity to secure victory for the Atlas Cubs, smashing his penalty home and triggering jubilant celebrations.

Despite Esmaeil Gholizadeh’s superb second-half header seemingly propelling Iran to victory, a powerful volley from Nassim Azaouzi leveled the game, forcing it into a penalty shootout.

After a tense first half, Morocco gained momentum in the second period. Mohamed Hamony, the Atlas Cubs’ standout player, tested Iran’s goalkeeper Arsha Shakouri with a remarkable curling effort, setting the stage for the thrilling comeback.

In the 73rd minute, against the run of play, Iran took the lead when Gholizadeh met a cross from Nima Andarz with a precise header that hit the post and went in. Morocco responded strongly, with Amirmohammad Razaghinia’s thunderous free-kick striking the crossbar. However, Azaouzi ensured parity by confidently lashing home on the volley.

The match ultimately proceeded to penalties, where Morocco’s goalkeeper Benrhozil emerged as the hero, guiding his team to the quarter-finals. Their next challenge awaits against Mali in Surakarta on Friday.