The group stage of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Egypt 2025 wrapped up on Friday, May 9, with eight nations securing passage to the quarter-finals after a fiercely contested series of matches.
Serving as a qualification tournament for the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025, this year’s competition has been a showcase of Africa’s finest young footballing talent, all competing not only for continental glory but also one of the four coveted World Cup slots.
The teams progressing to the knockout round are: hosts Egypt, DR Congo, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and South Africa.
The quarter-final clashes are set to take place on Monday, 12 May.
Egypt sealed their place in the final eight with a narrow 1-0 triumph over Tanzania at the Suez Canal Stadium on Friday evening, finishing as one of the two best third-placed teams. They join DR Congo, who secured qualification with a 3-1 victory over Central African Republic and a vital 1-1 draw with Ghana.
South Africa topped Group A after playing out a 1-1 draw with regional rivals Zambia, with Sierra Leone finishing just behind them in second place. Morocco emerged as Group B winners, earning their spot with an unbeaten run, while Nigeria progressed as runners-up.
Ghana topped Group C and are joined by reigning champions Senegal, who edged past DR Congo on goal difference to clinch second place.
Group Stage Highlights
Morocco impressed with a strong unbeaten campaign, registering a thrilling 3-2 win over Kenya, a goalless draw with Nigeria, and a 3-1 win against Tunisia.
Nigeria, seven-time champions, advanced with a disciplined display, including a crucial point earned against Morocco.
Senegal, the defending champions, continued their solid run, progressing confidently into the knockouts.
South Africa topped their group following a composed set of performances, culminating in a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Zambia.
Quarter-Final Fixtures (12 May)
The next stage promises fireworks, with four mouth-watering fixtures lined up:
- 12:00 GMT | Nigeria vs Senegal
A heavyweight clash to open the quarter-finals as Nigeria lock horns with defending champions Senegal. - 15:00 GMT | Ghana vs Egypt
Hosts Egypt face a stern test against a well-drilled Ghanaian side riding high on form. - 15:00 GMT | Morocco vs Sierra Leone
Group B leaders Morocco take on the underdogs Sierra Leone, who are looking to extend their fairytale campaign. - 18:00 GMT | South Africa vs DR Congo
South Africa’s flair will be put to the test by a tactically disciplined DR Congo outfit.
Statistical Standouts
- Top Goalscorer: Momoh Kamara currently leads the scoring charts with four goals.
All quarter-final matches will be streamed live on CAF’s official YouTube channel, CAF TV.
