Mediterranean Games: Morocco U20 Win Bronze Medal After 4-1 Victory Over Italy

Rabat – Morocco’s U20 national team secured the bronze medal at the 2026 Mediterranean Games after defeating hosts Italy 4-1 in the third-place playoff in Taranto on Sunday, August 30.

The Atlas Cubs produced a strong performance from the opening whistle, controlling possession and creating several chances against the Italian side.

Morocco took the lead in the 10th minute through Mohamed Monsef, who capitalized on a defensive mistake following a well-constructed attacking move.

The national team continued to dominate and created several opportunities to extend its advantage before halftime. However, a lack of precision in the final third prevented Morocco from adding more goals, with the first half ending 1-0.

Morocco doubled its lead shortly after the restart. In the 46th minute, Abdelali Daoudi found the net following a well-organized attack down the right, with Hamza Bouhdi providing the assist.

The Atlas Cubs struck again just four minutes later. Karim Saadi scored in the 50th minute to put Morocco 3-0 ahead and leave Italy facing a difficult comeback.

The hosts managed to reduce the deficit in the 60th minute when substitute Giamattiell took advantage of a defensive error to make it 3-1.

Morocco, however, quickly regained control and continued to threaten the Italian defense. Saadi completed his brace in the 75th minute with an outstanding long-range effort from around 20 meters, restoring Morocco’s three-goal lead.

Italy attempted to respond in the final stages, but Morocco remained solid until the final whistle to secure an emphatic 4-1 victory.

The result confirmed Morocco’s place on the podium and earned the U20 national team the bronze medal at the Mediterranean Games, completing an impressive tournament with a convincing win over the hosts.