Goals scored and squad utilisation

The final, contested by Argentina and Morocco, was a genuine highlight. While many expected Argentina’s physicality and intensity to dominate, Morocco’s tactical structure and mental resilience stood out. They defended with composure, seized their attacking moments, and made history, becoming only the second African nation since Ghana in 2009 to win this competitive edition of the U-20 tournament.

Goalscoring efficiency improved slightly in 2025, with 149 goals in total from 1,307 attempts at goal (one goal scored in every 8.8 attempts) compared to 154 goals scored in FIFA U-20 World Cup Argentina 2023™ from 1,403 attempts at goal (one goal in every 9.11 attempts). An average of 2.9 goals were scored per match compared to 3.0 in 2023. Teams also started each half strongly, with nine more goals scored in the opening 0-15 minutes of the first half and four more bagged in the opening period (45-60 minutes) of the second half (see graphic 3).

Interestingly, nine fewer goals were scored during additional time at the end of the regulation 90 minutes, while 46 of the total 149 goals scored came from set plays — 18 from corners, eight from free kicks and 20 from penalties. There were an average of 2.88 goals per game and a mean winning margin of 1.88, both lower than the corresponding figures from Argentina 2023 (2.96 goals per game and a 2.04 margin).

The proportion of attempts at goal on target in 2025 was 33.5%, a slight decrease from 35.2% in 2023. However, the share of attempts at goal that resulted in goals being scored increased from 28.5% in 2023 to 32.9% in 2025, highlighting improved goalscoring efficiency.

Regarding goal locations, 88% of the 149 goals were scored from inside the penalty area (126), and 12% were from outside the area, excluding the five own goals that were also scored.

The average age of players utilised during the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile increased from 19 years and 5 months in 2023 to 19 years and 9 months in 2025. Competing nations named 21-player squads with an average of 18.8 players getting game time per panel. Furthermore, winners Morocco and Korea Republic both gave playing minutes to all 21 players. With teams allowed to make five regular substitutions each, an average of 4.4 subs were used per team in the regulation 90 minutes, which is consistent with the 4.3 average in 2023.

Goal contributions from substitutes — 48 in 2025 — also remained consistent with the 49 recorded in 2023, with Argentina’s subs making the biggest impact, scoring seven goals and providing four assists.