The group stage of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Egypt 2025 concluded on Friday, May 9, with eight nations advancing to the quarter-finals after a gripping round of matches that showcased Africa’s emerging football talents.
The tournament, which serves as a qualifier for the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025, has seen young stars battle for both continental glory and one of the four coveted World Cup slots reserved for Africa.
The eight teams that have progressed to the knockout stage are hosts Egypt, DR Congo, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and South Africa. The quarter-finals are scheduled to be played on Monday, May 12.
Hosts Egypt sealed their place among the final eight after edging Tanzania 1-0 on Friday night at the Suez Canal Stadium, securing qualification as one of the two best third-placed teams. DR Congo joined them in a similar fashion, thanks to a 3-1 win over the Central African Republic and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Ghana.
In Group A, South Africa topped the table following a 1-1 draw with Zambia, while Sierra Leone finished second. Morocco emerged as Group B winners after an unbeaten run, followed by Nigeria who came in second. Group C saw Ghana finish top, with reigning champions Senegal narrowly advancing as runners-up on goal difference ahead of DR Congo.
