At just 20 years old, Yassir Zabiri’s journey from playing football on dusty neighborhood fields to becoming a world champion with Morocco’s U20 national team is nothing short of remarkable. In a revealing interview, the Famalicao forward shared the hurdles he has faced and the dreams that continue to drive him.
Zabiri, who scored two defining goals during Morocco’s historic U20 World Cup final victory over Argentina, reflected on the surreal nature of the triumph. “It’s like a dream unfolding in front of your eyes. Football has been everything to me since I was a child. While I focused on my studies like everyone else, my heart was always with the ball,” he shared.
His passion for football ignited at a young age, and his immense talent propelled him through Kawkab Marrakech and the Mohammed VI Academy in his hometown. In 2015, he moved to the academy’s main center in Rabat, a pivotal phase in his life that lasted nine and a half years. He credits the academy, now likened to the best in Europe, for his successful development. “With care, stability, and modern facilities, you begin to think and behave like a professional from a young age. Without that environment, I wouldn’t have reached this level,” he emphasized.
Zabiri’s admiration extends to fellow Moroccan stars like Nayef Aguerd, who offered him support during the World Cup. Their close bond was integral, especially as Zabiri noted how Aguerd’s encouragement helped him maintain confidence on the world stage.
The sense of unity within Morocco’s U20 squad also played a crucial role in their success. Zabiri praised the three-year journey they shared and the emotional understanding fostered by their coach. This team cohesion allowed him to play fearlessly, stating, “I wasn’t afraid of making mistakes. My teammates would always stand behind me.” Even during the high-pressure final, the crowd and Argentina’s provocations fueled his determination to shine.
The thrill of scoring, particularly his stunning free kick during the final, has left an indelible mark on Zabiri. “The first goal shocked me. The second was a once-in-a-lifetime moment… when you feel the dream becoming real,” he recalled.
Looking ahead, Zabiri is eager to take the next step in his career and has recently secured a starting position for Famalicao against FC Porto. “I want to score goals, show my qualities, and prove to Walid that I deserve a place,” he stated. With Morocco set to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2025, he expressed a strong desire to represent his country. “Is there anyone who doesn’t dream of playing AFCON in their own country? We want to win it,” he said, while also emphasizing the importance of supporting his teammates regardless.
In concluding his interview, Zabiri reiterated his passion for Spanish football, indicating that he is adaptable to any style, reinforcing his wide-ranging ambitions as a player. His inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope and determination, showcasing the power of dreams, hard work, and unwavering support in achieving success on the world stage.