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CAF
12-05-2025
- Sport
- CAF
World Cup tickets at stake as Africa's best collide in U20 AFCON quarter-finals
The race for Africa's four coveted spots at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 reaches a boiling point as the quarter-final matches of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations are played across three Egyptian cities on Monday. With a World Cup ticket guaranteed for each of the four semi-finalists, today's matches are no longer just about continental pride—they are about survival, legacy, and securing a place on the global stage. 'This is like a final,' Nigeria coach Aliyu Zubairu said ahead of his team's titanic clash with defending champions Senegal. 'We know what to expect. It's a big match for both teams because the winner is going to the World Cup. We must be disciplined and determined for the full 90 minutes.' The Flying Eagles, Africa's most decorated U-20 side with seven titles, enter the tie unbeaten but under scrutiny following a nervy 2-2 draw with Kenya. Their opponents, Senegal, stumbled early but revived their campaign with a decisive 2-0 win over DR Congo. It's a heavyweight battle with high stakes, as both sides know only victory will do. Later in Suez, hosts Egypt will carry a nation's hopes against high-flying Ghana. The Black Satellites, winners of Group C and former world champions themselves, arrive as favourites—but Egyptian coach Osama Nabih is banking on resilience and home support. 'We're going through difficult circumstances due to injuries and fatigue,' Nabih admitted. 'But we are armed with a fighting spirit and determined to make the fans happy. We know the importance of this match—it is our chance to qualify for the World Cup after 12 years.' Morocco, unbeaten in the group stage and firm title contenders, will face the competition's surprise package, Sierra Leone. The West Africans stunned Egypt 4-1 in the group stage and carry the hopes of a nation making its first U20 AFCON appearance. 'We respect Sierra Leone, but we know our strengths,' said Moroccan coach Mohamed Ouahbi. 'We'll rely on our technique, combinations, and tactical organisation. We must stay true to our identity.' In Ismailia, South Africa's Amajita will take on DR Congo in what could be the most finely poised fixture of the day. South Africa were steady, if unspectacular, during the group phase, while the Congolese showed both firepower and vulnerability. It's a tactical battle that could be decided by fine margins. These quarter-finals are more than just knock-out fixtures—they're make-or-break showdowns that will define careers and rewrite histories. With a place in Chile on the line, expect drama, grit, and no shortage of heartbreak. TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON Egypt 2025 Quarter-Finals Fixtures 12h00 GMT | Nigeria vs Senegal 15h00 GMT | Ghana vs Egypt 15h00 GMT | Morocco vs Sierra Leone 18h00 GMT | South Africa vs DR Congo
CAF
10-05-2025
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 quarter-finals line up confirmed
The group stage of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 concluded on Friday, 09 May with eight teams securing their spots in the quarterfinals of the competition after a series of thrilling group stage matches. The tournament, which serves as a qualifier for the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025, has showcased the continent's emerging talents, who are all vying for the continental crown as well as the four available spots for Africa at the FIFA U-20 World Cup later this year. The teams advancing to the knockout stage are: Egypt (Hosts), DR Congo, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa. The quarter-finals will take place on Monday, 12 May. Tournament hosts, Egypt powered into the quarterfinals with a narrow 1-0 win over Tanzania at the Suez Canal Stadium on Friday evening to secure their place as one of the two best third placed sides along with DR Congo, who's 3-1 win over Central Africa Republic and 1-1 draw against Ghana was enough to see them through. South Africa finished top Group A following Friday's 1-1 stalemate against neighbours Zambia, along with Sierra Leone who came in second, while Morocco finished top of Group B and will be joined by second placed Nigeria in the next round. The quarter-finals line-up is concluded by the defending champions, Senegal who narrowly edged DR Congo on goal-difference to finish second behind group leaders, Ghana in Group C. Group Stage Highlights Morocco: Morocco topped their group with an unbeaten run, including a 3-2 win over Kenya, a 0-0 draw with Nigeria, and a 3-1 victory against Tunisia. Nigeria: The seven-time champions secured their quarterfinal spot with a solid performance, including a crucial draw against Morocco. Senegal: The defending champions continued their impressive form, advancing confidently from their group. South Africa: The South Africans demonstrated their prowess, advancing to the quarterfinals with a strong showing in the group stage that concluded with a closely contested 1-1 stalemate with neighbours, Zambia. Appetising Quarter-Final matches: A tantalising line up of quarter-finals fixtures mark the next phase of the competition with highly unpredictable ties. Defending champions Senegal take on a dangerous looking Nigeria in the first quarter-final clash. Tournament hosts Egypt have a tough steep mountain to climb against a high in confidence Ghana. Morocco, who have been convincing in the group stages take on a spirited Sierra Leone who are looking at continuing with their dream run, while the skilful South Africans must overcome a tactically astute DR Congo. Statistical Leaders Top Goalscorer: Momoh Kamara leads the scoring charts with 4 goals. TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON Egypt 2025 Quarter-Finals Fixtures 12h00 GMT | Nigeria vs Senegal 15h00 GMT | Ghana vs Egypt 15h00 GMT | Morocco vs Sierra Leone 18h00 GMT | South Africa vs DR Congo All matches will be live on CAF's Official YouTube channel, CAF TV.
CAF
28-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Everything You Need to Know About the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025
The 18th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations is officially underway in Egypt, promising three weeks of thrilling football action from the continent's rising stars. Running from 27 April to 18 May 2025, this prestigious youth tournament not only crowns the champions of Africa at U-20 level but also serves as a direct qualification route to the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025, with four coveted spots available. Here's everything you need to know about the tournament Host Nation and Venues Egypt, three-time U-20 continental champions, was confirmed as the replacement host after Côte d'Ivoire withdrew earlier this year. The matches are being staged across three cities — Cairo, Ismailia, and Suez — making use of four major stadiums: Cairo International Stadium (Capacity: 75,000) 30 June Stadium, Cairo (Capacity: 30,000) Suez Canal Stadium, Ismailia (Capacity: 22,000) Suez Stadium, Suez (Capacity: 27,000) Egypt has a strong record of organizing major continental tournaments and is expected to deliver yet another successful event, after recently hosting the senior AFCON in 2019 and the U-23 Africa Cup of Nations the same year. Format and Group Stage The 13 qualified teams have been divided into three groups — one of five teams (Group A) and two of four teams (Groups B and C). The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will progress to the quarter-finals. From there, a traditional knockout system will be followed. The groups are: Group A : Egypt (hosts), Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania Group B : Nigeria, Tunisia, Kenya, Morocco Group C: Senegal (defending champions), Ghana, DR Congo, Central African Republic All group-stage matches are played in a round-robin format, with three points for a win, one for a draw, and none for a loss. In the event of tied points, head-to-head results, goal difference, goals scored, and even drawing of lots may come into play to determine rankings. What's at Stake In addition to lifting the continental title, the stakes are incredibly high: the four semi-finalists will earn automatic qualification to the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile later this year. Africa has traditionally performed strongly at U-20 World Cups, with Ghana winning in 2009 and Senegal finishing runners-up in 2023. The qualification battle in Egypt 2025 promises to be fierce. The Qualified Teams The tournament features a blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting debutants. Notable qualifiers include: Senegal : Reigning champions and favorites to retain their crown. Nigeria : Record seven-time winners at this level, boasting a rich history. Egypt : Hosts and three-time U-20 AFCON winners, eager for home success. Ghana : Four-time champions aiming to reclaim continental dominance. Morocco : 1997 champions, returning to compete strongly. Debutants: Sierra Leone and Kenya are making historic first appearances, signaling the growing spread of youth football development across the continent. Star Players to Watch The TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations has a rich tradition of unearthing future global stars. Legends such as Mohamed Salah, Samuel Eto'o, and Didier Drogba made their first mark at youth tournaments like this. Key players expected to shine in Egypt 2025 include: Pierre Dorival (Senegal) : The exciting Lyon midfielder is known for launching attacks Mohamed Abdallah (Egypt) : The home crowd will pin hopes on this dynamic midfielder. Jerry Afriyie (Ghana) : A rising forward with clinical finishing ability. Kparabo Arierhi (Nigeria): A lethal striker who impressed during qualifiers. Defending Champions and Big Contenders Senegal enters as defending champions, hoping to continue their recent dominance in African youth football. However, they will face stiff competition from Nigeria, Ghana, and hosts Egypt, all of whom have pedigree at this level. South Africa and Morocco also present serious challenges, with strong squads capable of going deep into the tournament. Egypt's Preparation and Facilities Egypt's selection as host brings a guarantee of world-class organization. All four stadiums have been upgraded, and training facilities meet CAF's highest standards. Security, hospitality, and medical services have been prioritized, with fans expected to enjoy a safe and festive tournament atmosphere across Cairo, Ismailia, and Suez. Historical Background The CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations has been played since 1979, originally as a home-and-away tournament before evolving into a full host-nation event from 1991. The tournament has launched the careers of many African greats, and its importance in the footballing calendar cannot be overstated. Previous winners include: Nigeria (7 titles) Ghana (4 titles) Egypt (3 titles) Cameroon, Congo, Angola, Zambia, and Senegal have each won once. Key Dates 27 April – 9 May 2025 : Group stage 12 May 2025 : Quarter-finals 15 May 2025 : Semi-finals 18 May 2025: Third-place playoff and Final The final is set to be played at the Cairo International Stadium, one of Africa's most iconic venues. How to Follow the Action Fans across Africa and beyond can follow the tournament live through CAF's official broadcast partners including SuperSport, beIN Sports, Canal+, and on CAF TV's YouTube channel. Daily match reports, highlights, and exclusive interviews will also be available on and across CAF's social media platforms.
CAF
20-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025 Fixtures Confirmed
Published: Sunday, 20 April 2025 Hosts Egypt to kick off the tournament against Zambia on 27 April at the Cairo International Stadium Three stadiums in three cities – Cairo, Ismailia and Suez – to host all matches Four semi-finalists to qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup, Chile 2025 The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has announced the dates, kick-off times, and venues for the group stage and knockout fixtures of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025. The 17th edition of Africa's flagship youth tournament will run from 27 April to 18 May 2025, featuring 13 nations competing across three venues in Cairo, Ismailia, and Suez. The opening matchday takes place on Sunday, 27 April with hosts Egypt playing Zambia at 21h00 (local time) at the Cairo International Stadium. Earlier that evening, Sierra Leone face South Africa at 18h00, in Group A in Ismailia. Nigeria and Kenya open Group B action at 18h00 on 1 May at 30 June Stadium in Cairo, followed by Kenya vs Morocco at 21h00 at the same venue. Senegal will begin their title defence against Central African Republic in the opening Group C match on 2 May in Suez at 18h00 before DR Congo take on Ghana at the same venue at 21h00. The TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON Egypt 2025 will follow a three-group format. Group A contains five teams, while Groups B and C feature four teams each. The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will progress to the quarter-finals, with the tournament concluding on 18 May 2025. The four semi-finalists will qualify to represent Africa at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025, continuing the continent's proud tradition of global excellence in youth football. For a full list of TotalEnergies CAF U20 AFCON Egypt 2025 Fixtures, Times and Venues – CLICK HERE Groups for the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025 Group A: Egypt, Zambia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania Group B: Nigeria, Tunisia, Kenya, Morocco Group C: Senegal, Central African Republic, DR Congo, Ghana -ENDS- Further Inquiries: communications@ CAF | Communication Department
CAF
13-02-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Final Draw for the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Côte d'Ivoire 2025 Concludes in Cairo
The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) conducted the Final Draw for the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Côte d'Ivoire 2025 on Thursday, 13 February 2025, at CAF headquarters in Cairo, Egypt. The draw event was attended by CAF executives and invited guests with former Mali international Adama Coulibaly and Senegal legend Souleymane Camara acting as draw assistants. The tournament, set to take place from 26 April to 18 May 2025, will feature 13 teams competing for continental glory and four qualification spots for the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025. The draw produced exciting group stage fixtures, with heavyweight clashes expected from the opening rounds as record title holders Nigeria were among three former winners placed in the same group. The Flying Eagles will play in Group B where they will face former champions Egypt and Morocco as well as South Africa. In Group A, hosts Côte d'Ivoire will take on DR Congo, Ghana, Tanzania, and a second representative from the UNIFFAC region, making it one of the most competitive groups. Group C sees Senegal begin their title defence against Zambia, Kenya, and Sierra Leone, promising another fiercely contested group. The TotalEnergies CAF U-20 AFCON 2025 will follow a three-group format, with Group A containing five teams, while Groups B and C each feature four teams. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the quarter-finals, along with the two best third-placed teams. From there, the tournament will proceed in a knockout format, culminating in the final on 18 May 2025. Additionally, the four semi-finalists will book their place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 later this year, continuing Africa's proud tradition of excellence on the world stage. Senegal, the defending champions, are chasing a second title after winning in Egypt 2023. However, they will face stiff competition from Nigeria, the most successful team in the tournament's history with seven titles (1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 2005, 2011, and 2015). Ghana, another continental powerhouse, will look to reclaim the title, having won it four times and making history in 2009 by becoming the first and only African team to win the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Egypt, Morocco, and Zambia, all former champions, will also be looking to make an impact, while Côte d'Ivoire aims to shine on home soil. The groups of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Cote d'Ivoire 2025 Group A Group B Group C Cote d'Ivoire Nigeria Senegal UNIFFAC 2* Egypt Zambia DR Congo South Africa Kenya Ghana Morocco Sierra Leone Tanzania - - -ENDS- For more details on the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Cote d'Ivoire 2025, please visit Further Enquiries: CAF Communications communications@
