CAF U-20 Afcon: Nigeria, South Africa , Egypt, Morocco set up semi final clash
Four continental heavyweights—Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and South Africa—have advanced to the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025, setting up a blockbuster conclusion to a tournament already rich in drama and emotion.
With qualification to the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 secured by reaching the last four following Monday’s matches, the race now shifts towards continental glory, bragging rights, and the coveted African crown.
Egypt overcome Ghana in penalty thriller
Tournament hosts Egypt kept their title ambitions alive in dramatic fashion, edging Ghana 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a gripping 1-1 draw. A late Ghanaian equaliser sent the match into extra time, but the young Pharaohs held their nerve when it mattered most, converting all but one of their spot-kicks to spark celebrations in Suez.
Nigeria eliminate champions Senegal on penalties
Record champions Nigeria showcased their pedigree and mental strength, overcoming defending champions Senegal 5-4 on penalties after 120 goalless minutes. In a high-stakes encounter dominated by defensive solidity and few clear chances, the Flying Eagles maintained composure in the shootout to march into the semi-finals and keep their quest for an eighth U-20 title alive.
Morocco edge Sierra Leone to end semi-final drought
Morocco booked their first U-20 AFCON semi-final appearance since 2005 with a 1-0 extra-time win over tournament debutants Sierra Leone. The match was decided by a cruel own goal in the 115th minute, as the Atlas Cubs’ consistent performances and defensive discipline once again proved decisive.
South Africa strike late to complete final four
South Africa joined the elite quartet after Thabang Mahlangu’s extra-time winner handed them a 1-0 victory over a stubborn DR Congo side. The Amajita will now look to emulate their 1997 run to the final, buoyed by a resilient team performance that withstood Congolese pressure.
Semi-final Fixtures (Thursday, 15 May):
South Africa vs Nigeria
Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
South Africa’s attacking flair will face a stern test against Nigeria’s physicality and tournament know-how.
Morocco vs Egypt
Kick-off: 18:00 GMT
A North African derby takes centre stage in Cairo as two unbeaten sides clash for a place in the final.
