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CAF
14-05-2025
- Sport
- CAF
How the quartet marched into TotalEnergies CAF U20 AFCON semi-finals
Published: Wednesday, 14 May 2025 The semi-final line-up for the TotalEnergies CAF 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) With a place in the final and a shot at continental glory at stake, these four African giants are now just one win away from the showpiece event.
Maroc
13-05-2025
- Sport
- Maroc
Morocco Beats Sierra Leone 1-0, Secures Spot in U-20 AFCON Semi Finals and World Cup
Morocco's U-20 football team qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals after beating their Sierra Leone counterparts 1-0 Monday at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo. The victory secured Morocco a spot in the upcoming U-20 World Cup in Chile. The winning goal was scored in extra time (regulation time 0-0) when Amara Keita put the ball into his own net (115th). For a place in the final, the Atlas Cubs will face the winner of the quarter-final between Egypt and Ghana. (MAP: 12 May 2025)
CAF
12-05-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Keita own goal sends Morocco into last four, books World Cup ticket
Published: Monday, 12 May 2025 Morocco edged debutants Sierra Leone 1-0 in extra time to book their place in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025, thanks to a dramatic late own goal from Amara Keita. The tense quarter-final clash at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo on Monday saw the North Africans dominate proceedings but struggle to break down a resolute Sierra Leone defence. It was a heartbreaking end for the tournament debutants, who pushed Morocco all the way before a cruel deflection settled the tie. The decisive moment arrived in the 115th minute when Keita inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure, giving Morocco a place in the final four and sealing their qualification for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile later this year. Sierra Leone's resistance was gallant throughout, despite being reduced to ten men in regulation time. Substitute Samba Bah was sent off following a VAR review in the 90th minute for a reckless challenge, leaving the West Africans to navigate extra time a man down. Morocco, Group B winners and one of the tournament favourites, had entered the match unbeaten in their last 12 games in open play at the U20 AFCON. Despite creating several chances through Jones El Abdellaoui, Ismaël Baouf, and Adam El Mokhtari, they were repeatedly denied by the heroics of Sierra Leone goalkeeper Mohamed Bai Kamara and a stubborn backline. Sierra Leone had their own moments of threat, notably through talisman Momoh Kamara, whose long-range effort in the 113th minute forced a fine save. However, the West Africans—who had stunned hosts Egypt 4-1 in the group stage—couldn't find the breakthrough this time. For Morocco, the win marks their second semi-final appearance since 2005 and maintains their unbeaten run at the 2025 finals. Coach Mohamed Ouahbi's side showed patience and composure, eventually breaking down a well-drilled opponent who had conceded the most goals of any team in the quarter-finals. Sierra Leone exit the tournament with pride, having exceeded expectations in their first-ever U20 AFCON appearance. With standout performances from Kamara and Alpha Turay, they have left a strong impression on the continental stage. Morocco will now look ahead to a semi-final clash with either South Africa or DR Congo, confident in their defensive resilience and tactical discipline.
