Afcon 2025: Morocco to the final at expense of host Egypt
Morocco sealed their place in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations with a narrow 1-0 victory over Egypt on Thursday, setting up a decisive clash with South Africa, who earlier edged Nigeria 1-0 in the day’s first semi-final.
it was substitute Jones El Abdellaoui who proved to be the difference-maker, finding the back of the net in the 77th minute. The striker latched onto a well-delivered cross from Ismaël Aouad, calmly slotting home to give the Young Atlas Lions a deserved lead.
The North African derby was marked by its intensity and physicality, with both sides battling hard for supremacy. Egypt started brightly but found clear chances hard to come by, while Morocco gradually grew into the match, creating more meaningful opportunities as the game progressed.
Morocco’s dominance in possession began to tell in the second half, with Reda Laalaoui, Fouad Zahouani, and Hossam Essadak all testing Egypt’s backline with long-range efforts and clever build-up play.
The breakthrough came after a spell of Moroccan pressure, and despite Egypt’s late attempts to respond—most notably through Ahmed Kabaka and Mohamed Raafat—the Pharaohs could not find a way past Morocco’s resolute defense.
The Young Atlas Lions will now face South Africa in what promises to be an enthralling final on Sunday evening, while the hosts will look for a consolation bronze medal when they face Nigeria on the day.
