South Africa and Morocco have booked their places in the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final after hard-fought victories over Nigeria and Egypt, respectively.
In a tightly contested semifinal clash, South Africa edged Nigeria 1-0 thanks to a well-placed header from Tylon Smith in the 66th minute, which ultimately proved to be the match-winner.
The defeat ended Nigeria’s bid for a record-extending eighth U-20 AFCON title, while South Africa celebrated reaching only their second-ever final — their first appearance since finishing as runners-up in 1997.
For Morocco, it was substitute Jones El Abdellaoui who proved to be the difference-maker, finding the back of the net in the 77th minute. The striker latched onto a well-delivered cross from Ismaël Aouad, calmly slotting home to give the Young Atlas Lions a deserved lead.
Morocco and South Africa will now lock horns in the final on Sunday, a repeat of the 1997 edition, which saw the North Africans emerge victorious with a 1-0 win.
Meanwhile, Nigeria and Egypt will now fight for the bronze medal on the same day.
READ MORE: Morocco to Compete in 2025 COSAFA Championship, Draw Date Confirmed
