AFCON 2025
Morocco’s U-20 national team secured a narrow 1-0 victory over hosts Egypt in the semifinals of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Thursday, advancing to the tournament’s final.
The decisive goal came in the 77th minute when substitute Jones El Abdellaoui who proved to be the difference-maker, finding the back of the net.
The striker latched onto a well-delivered cross from Ismaël Aouad, calmly slotting home to give the Young Atlas Lions a deserved lead.
Despite Egypt’s efforts to equalize, including a late surge in the final minutes, Morocco’s defense held firm to preserve the lead.
With this win, Morocco advances to the U-20 AFCON final, where they will face South Africa, who defeated Nigeria 1-0 in the other semifinal match.
Both Morocco and Egypt have already secured qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, as the top four teams from the U-20 AFCON earn spots in the global tournament.
The U-20 AFCON final is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 18, at Cairo International Stadium.
