Mixed Fortunes For African Sides In FIFA U-20 World Cup Group Stage
Africa’s four representatives at the upcoming FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 discovered their group-stage opponents after the official draw in Santiago.
Fresh from lifting their maiden continental title at the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations earlier this month, South Africa were handed a stern challenge in Group E following Thursday night’s draw.
The Amajita will face European powerhouse France, USA and New Caledonia in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most intriguing groups.
Elsewhere, Nigeria — Africa’s most experienced nation at this level with 14 appearances — landed in Group F alongside Colombia, Norway, and Saudi Arabia.
The Flying Eagles will be eyeing a deep run as they aim to recapture the form that has previously taken them to two finals.
North African duo Egypt and Morocco complete the continent’s representation.
Egypt will compete in Group A alongside tournament hosts Chile, Japan and New Zealand.
The Pharaohs will hope to make an early statement against a formidable Chilean side buoyed by home support.
Morocco, meanwhile, find themselves in Group C, drawn against three-time champions Brazil, Mexico, and Spain.
It’s a tough section for the North Africans, who will be banking on the defensive solidity and attacking flair that saw them reach the final of the U-20 AFCON in Cairo.
The 24-team tournament will kick off on 27 September and run until 19 October across four host cities — Santiago, Rancagua, Talca and Valparaiso.
The top two teams from each group and four best third-placed sides will advance to the knockout stage.
African eyes will now turn toward preparations, as the continent’s finest young talents gear up to shine on the global stage.
Group A: Chile, Egypt, Japan, New Zealand
Group B: Korea Republic, Panama, Paraguay, Ukraine
Group C: Brazil, Mexico, Morocco, Spain
Group D: Argentina, Australia, Cuba, Italy
Group E: France, New Caledonia, South Africa, USA
Group F: Colombia, Nigeria, Norway, Saudi Arabia
