U-20 AFCON: Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa And Morocco Advance as Semi-Finals Stage Beckons
The stage is set for a thrilling climax to the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 as Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and South Africa prepare for the semi-finals after dramatic quarter-final victories on Friday in Egypt.
With the coveted FIFA U-20 World Cup tickets already secured by virtue of reaching the final four, all eyes now turn to the prestigious continental crown, and the chance to etch their names in African football history.
Hosts Egypt Survive Ghana Scare
The Pharaohs had to dig deep to keep their title dreams alive, edging Ghana 4-3 on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw at full-time. Despite a late Ghanaian equalizer that sent the match into extra time, Egypt held their nerve from the spot.
Nigeria Show Grit to Knock Out Holders Senegal
Record champions Nigeria showcased their resilience with a nerve-shredding 5-4 penalty shootout win over defending champions Senegal. A goalless stalemate across 120 minutes failed to separate the two sides before the Flying Eagles held their composure in the shootout.
Coach Ladan Bosso’s men now aim to add to their record seven titles and continue their dominance at this level.
Morocco Edge Gambia to Reach First Semi Since 2005
A 1-0 win over Gambia was enough for Morocco to seal a long-awaited return to the semi-finals, their first in two decades. A first-half own goal by Alieu Keita proved decisive in a cagey affair, sending the North Africans through.. Buoyed by a solid defensive record, Morocco will be a tough nut to crack as they pursue a maiden U-20 AFCON title.
Mahlangu late strike sees Amajita through
South Africa became the fourth and final nation to secure their place thanks to a late It Thabang Mahlanguextra time strike that sealed a place for Amajita.s Africa will now look to emulate their 1997 run when they reached the final.
Semi-Final Fixtures | Thursday, 15 May
South Africa vs Nigeria
The enterprising style of play of the South Africans will be tested to the limits when they face off against Nigeria in a 15h00 GMT Kick off.
Morocco vs Egypt
A North African derby looms in Egypt, as the hosts prepare to face the high-flying Morocco in what promises to be a highly entertaining encounter between two strong North African sides.
