Egypt U20 head coach Osama Nabih has admitted his team faces a tough challenge after being drawn into what is widely regarded as the toughest group at the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.
The Young Pharaohs are set to compete in Group B alongside Nigeria, Morocco, and South Africa in the tournament, which runs from April 26 to May 18.
Nigeria, the reigning WAFU B champions and seven-time U20 AFCON winners, are among the favorites, while Egypt, a four-time champion, will aim to add to their legacy.
The two nations share a rich history in the competition, including a memorable 2005 final where Nigeria triumphed 2-0.
Morocco, the 1997 champions, and South Africa, a consistent performer with silver and bronze medals to their name, further intensify the competition in what is being called the “group of death.”
Nabih acknowledged the difficulty of the draw but remained optimistic about his team’s chances.
The tournament also serves as a qualifier for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, with the top four teams securing their spots.
Nabih revealed that Egypt will continue their rigorous preparations, including friendly matches, to ensure the team is fully ready.
“It is certainly the strongest group in the tournament, but we trust in ourselves, our players, and our capabilities,” Nabih told the Egypt FA.
“We have a difficult challenge in Côte d’Ivoire. With effort, sweat, and hard work, we are able to overcome the difficulty and qualify for the World Cup.”
“We will complete the serious work we have started and prepare well for the tournament. We have a respectable preparation program and will play a number of friendly matches to achieve the required harmony and cohesion for this team,” he added.
In other groups, hosts Côte d’Ivoire will face DR Congo, Ghana, Tanzania, and a UNIFFAC representative in Group A, while defending champions Senegal headline Group C alongside Zambia, Kenya, and Sierra Leone.
With high stakes and fierce competition, the 2025 U20 AFCON promises to be a thrilling showcase of African youth football talent.
