South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, and Morocco will represent Africa at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile this September after securing their spots in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
COSAFA champions, South Africa, advanced to the semi-finals of the competition with a dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory over DR Congo.
Following a goalless 90 minutes, Thabang Mahlangu scored the decisive goal in the 109th minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from Shakeel April to tap in from close range.
The Amajitas will now face Nigeria in the semi-finals on Thursday.
Nigeria secured their spot after defeating defending champions Senegal 3-1 on penalties, following a goalless draw in both regular time and extra time at the Suez Canal Stadium.
The Super Falcons head coach, Laden Bosso, highlighted their thorough preparation for the encounter.
“We prepared for all scenarios, including penalties. I’m proud of the boys for executing under pressure,” he told CAF Online.
In the other semi-final, hosts Egypt will meet Morocco in a North African derby.
Morocco clinched their semi-final berth with a narrow 1-0 extra-time win over debutants Sierra Leone, courtesy of a late own goal by Amara Keita. Meanwhile, Egypt edged past Ghana 4-3 on penalties after a hard-fought 1-1 draw in regulation time.
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