The Colombia U-20 national team claimed third place and the bronze medal at the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup after defeating France 1-0 in their playoff match on Saturday evening.
The only goal of the match was scored by Oscar Peria in the second minute, giving the Colombian side an early lead that they successfully defended until the final whistle.
France had reached the semifinals after an impressive run throughout the tournament, but their dream of making it to the final was cut short by Morocco, who triumphed on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time.
Despite a strong showing from the French “Les Bleus,” the heroics of Morocco’s goalkeeper in key saves secured the North African team’s spot in the final.
Colombia, on the other hand, fell just short of the championship after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Argentina.
Mateo Silvetti scored the decisive goal in the 72nd minute, taking advantage of Colombia’s numerical disadvantage following a red card earlier in the second half.
Argentina managed to maintain their lead and advance to the final.
Morocco and Argentina will meet in the highly anticipated final, scheduled for early Monday, in a showdown between the champions of Africa and South America.
This year’s edition of the tournament witnessed fierce competition among the world’s football powerhouses.