The 2025 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals delivered high drama, late goals, and nerve-shredding penalty shootouts, as Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa secured their places in the semi-finals-and with it, qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile later this year.
Egypt survive Ghana scare in shootout thriller
Hosts Egypt booked their semi-final spot after a pulsating 2-2 draw and a 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Ghana at the New Suez Stadium Momen Sherif’s first-half brace put Egypt 2-0 up, but Ghana’s Aziz Issah pulled one back before the break.
The Black Satellites’ resilience paid off deep into stoppage time, as Abdul Sulemana converted a VAR-awarded penalty in the 90+11th minute to force extra time.
Ghana went down to ten men after Aaron Essel’s red card in the 107th minute, but Egypt could not find a winner.
In the shootout, Egypt converted all five penalties, while a crucial save denied Dacosta Antwi, sending the Pharaohs through to their eighth U20 AFCON semi-final and their first World Cup since 2013.
Morocco edge brave Sierra Leone in extra time
Morocco advanced after a tense 1-0 extra-time win over debutants Sierra Leone at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium2.
The North Africans dominated possession but were frustrated by Sierra Leone’s disciplined defense and the heroics of goalkeeper Mohamed Bai Kamara.
The deadlock was broken in the 115th minute when Amara Keita inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.
Sierra Leone, who finished with ten men after Samba Bah’s late red card, exit with pride after a historic first campaign, while Morocco reach their second semi-final since 2005 and extend their unbeaten run in the competition.
Nigeria knock out holders Senegal on penalties
Record seven-time champions Nigeria held their nerve to defeat defending champions Senegal 3-1 on penalties after a goalless draw at the Suez Canal Stadium.
Both sides created chances but could not break the deadlock in 120 minutes. In the shootout, Nigeria’s composure proved decisive, with goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt saving a crucial spot kick.
The Flying Eagles maintain their perfect quarter-final record under the current format and move one step closer to an eighth title.
Final four set
With South Africa also through, the semi-finals promise high stakes and quality football as Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa chase continental glory.
All four have also booked their tickets to the FIFA U-20 World Cup, underlining the strength and depth of African youth football this year4.
The stage is set for a thrilling climax to the U20 AFCON, with the hosts Egypt and favorites Morocco looking to add to their continental pedigree, while Nigeria and South Africa aim to continue their impressive runs.
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