Morocco's Bouadi second youngest to reach World Cup quarter-final, behind Pelé

Moroccan midfielder Ayoub Bouadi has etched his name in football history, becoming the second youngest player ever to compete in a World Cup quarterfinal. At just 18 years and 280 days old, Bouadi achieved this milestone during Morocco's match against France on Thursday in Boston.

This remarkable feat places him in elite company, trailing only the legendary Brazilian player Pelé. Pelé was a mere 17 years and 239 days old when he played his first World Cup quarterfinal in 1958, a tournament where he shone brightly, scoring the winning goal and becoming the youngest World Cup scorer ever.

Bouadi's performance in the current World Cup has been noteworthy. His participation in this quarterfinal also marks a significant achievement for African football. He is now the first African player to have played in five World Cup matches before reaching the age of 20, underscoring the growing talent emerging from the continent.