How Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt and Morocco Marched into U-20 AFCON Semi-Finals
The semi-final line-up for the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 is set, with Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa emerging as the continent’s final four after navigating tough group stage campaigns and dramatic quarter-final battles.
Each side followed a distinct path to reach the last four of the prestigious youth tournament, booking not just semi-final spots but also their tickets to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
Here’s how each team travelled from the group stage to book their spot in the semi-finals:
Egypt rise from group struggle to edge Ghana
Host nation Egypt endured a turbulent group stage in Group A. A 1-0 win over South Africa in the opening match was followed by a shock 4-1 loss to Sierra Leone.
They narrowly secured qualification as one of the best third-placed teams after a goalless draw with Tanzania.
In the quarter-finals, the young Pharaohs pulled off a dramatic comeback against Ghana, clawing back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2, before holding their nerve to win 5-4 on penalties.
Coach Osama Nabih described the moment as “the first part of our dream,” with the team now focused on going all the way.
Morocco’s unbeaten run continues
Morocco topped Group B with an unbeaten run, defeating Kenya 3-2 and Tunisia 3-1, and holding Nigeria to a goalless draw.
The Atlas Lions impressed with their attacking depth and strong defensive record, conceding just three times in three matches.
Their quarter-final against Sierra Leone was a tense affair. With the match still goalless deep into extra time, Morocco were gifted a winner through an own goal by Amara Keita in the 115th minute.
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi praised Sierra Leone as “a tough opponent” but stressed that Morocco “deserve to dream big.”
Nigeria show champion pedigree
The Flying Eagles were businesslike in Group B, defeating Tunisia 1-0, drawing with Morocco, and playing out a thrilling 2-2 draw with Kenya to top the group.
Their quarter-final was a heavyweight clash with defending champions Senegal, where Nigeria kept their composure in a tense goalless draw that went to penalties.
A 3-1 win in the shootout marked Nigeria’s 14th qualification for a U-20 World Cup, further cementing their status as the most successful African team at this level.
South Africa find rhythm at the right time
South Africa’s journey began with a gritty 1-0 win over Tanzania, followed by a 1-0 defeat to Egypt and a commanding 4-1 win over Sierra Leone in Group A.
Finishing top of the group, Amajita met DR Congo in the quarter-finals in a physically demanding match.
Shakeel April set up Thabang Mahlangu for the decisive extra-time winner, sending South Africa through to the semi-finals and the World Cup.
Semi-final Fixtures – Thursday, 15 May
Nigeria vs South Africa – Suez Canal Stadium, Ismailia (15:00 GMT)
Morocco vs Egypt – 30 June Stadium, Cairo (18:00 GMT)
