This article was automatically translated from HIBAPRESS, the Arabic version:
Hibapress-Rabat-Caf
Four continental heavyweights-Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco and South Africa-qualified for the semi-finals of the Totalnergies African Cup of U-20s of Egypt 2025, preparing a successful conclusion for a tournament already rich in drama and emotions.
The qualification for the U-20 World Cup of FIFA, Chile 2025 being ensured by reaching the last square after the matches on Monday, the race is now turning to continental glory, the rights to boast and the coveted African Crown.
Egypt beats Ghana in a thriller with penalties
Egypt, the host country of the tournament, maintained its title ambitions spectacularly, winning 4-3 on penalties against Ghana after a thrilling 1-1 draw. A Ghanaian equalization at the end of the match sent the match in overtime, but the young Pharaohs knew how to keep their cool at the crucial moment, transforming all their penalties except one, triggering celebrations in Suez.
Nigeria eliminates the Senegal champion on penalties
Nigeria, reigning champion, demonstrated its talent and its mental strength by winning 5-4 on penalties against Senegal, reigning champion, after 120 minutes of virgin play. In a high challenge meeting, dominated by a solid defense and few frank opportunities, the Flying Eagles knew how to keep their cool on penalties to qualify for the semi-finals and continue their quest for an eighth U-20 title.
Morocco beats Sierra Leone and ends the drought of the semi-finals
Morocco has obtained its first CAN U-20 semi-final since 2005 thanks to a 1-0 victory after overtime against Sierra Leone, which was in the tournament. The match ended in a goal against his cruel camp in the 115th minute, the constancy and the defensive discipline of the Atlas lion cubs having once again been decisive.
South Africa strikes at the end of the match to complete the last square
South Africa joined the elite quartet after the 1-0 victory of Thabang Mahlangu in overtime against a team from DR Congo Tenace. Amajita will now seek to reproduce its 1997 journey to the final, carried by a solid collective performance which resisted Congolese pressure.
Semi-finals (Thursday May 15):
South Africa vs Nigeria
Kick -off: 3:00 p.m. GMT
The offensive talent of South Africa will be put to the test in the face of the physicity and know-how of Nigeria in a tournament. Morocco – Egypt
Kick -off: 6:00 p.m. GMT (7:00 p.m. Moroccan time)
A North African derby occupies the front of the stage in Cairo while two undefeated teams compete for a place in the final.
