The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown at the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations as the tournament reaches the semi-final phase, with Nigeria squaring off against South Africa, while hosts Egypt face Morocco in a North African derby.
All four semi-finalists — Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco — have already secured qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025, but the battle for continental supremacy now takes centre stage.
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Nigeria vs South Africa: Amajita Brace for Flying Eagles’ Test
Africa’s most successful U-20 side, Nigeria, head into the clash against South Africa full of confidence after eliminating defending champions Senegal on penalties in a tense quarter-final. The Flying Eagles, chasing their eighth U-20 AFCON title, are unbeaten so far and have shown resilience under pressure.
Their opponents, Amajita, also required extra time to overcome DR Congo in a physically demanding fixture. Led by Thabang Mahlangu’s match-winning goal, South Africa will hope their defensive organisation and unity can neutralise Nigeria’s attacking threats.
This clash promises fireworks, with both sides possessing pace, power, and World Cup momentum.
Egypt vs Morocco : North African Derby Promises Tactical Battle
Hosts Egypt produced one of the tournament’s most dramatic comebacks to reach the semis, rallying from 2-0 down against Ghana to win 5-4 on penalties. Coach Osama Nabih will look to ride the wave of home support and emotion as his team chases its first U-20 title since 2003.
Morocco, meanwhile, edged out surprise package Sierra Leone via an extra-time own goal. The Atlas Cubs are unbeaten and boast one of the tournament’s meanest defences. Known for their tactical discipline and structure, they’ll be aiming to disrupt Egypt’s rhythm and reach their first final in two decades.
With regional pride on the line, this North African derby is expected to be cagey, calculated, and fiercely competitive.
Semi-Final Fixtures (CAF U-20 AFCON 2025):
Nigeria vs South Africa
Egypt vs Morocco
