Egypt claimed their first victory at the 2025 U20 World Cup with a dramatic 2-1 win over hosts Chile, but the result was not enough to secure qualification.
The African side entered their final Group A match needing a convincing result to stay in the competition.
They delivered a spirited performance and overturned an early deficit, yet their fate remained unchanged as they bowed out on goal difference.
Chile started strongly in front of their home supporters and broke the deadlock in the 27th minute.
Javier Nicolás Cárcamo finished clinically after a precise cross from Patricio Romero, giving La Roja an early advantage and strengthening their hopes of advancing.
Egypt refused to fold and came out with renewed energy after the interval. Just two minutes into the second half, Ahmed Abdin levelled the score after being set up by Omar Khedr.
The goal reignited belief within the Pharaohs’ ranks and shifted the momentum firmly in their favour.
The North Africans continued to press for a winner and were rewarded deep into stoppage time.
Khedr, already influential in Egypt’s first goal, turned scorer himself in the 95th minute to seal a memorable comeback victory.
The late twist stunned the home crowd and left Chile briefly fearing elimination.
They had led for much of the match and believed they had done enough to progress, only to see their advantage slip away in the dying moments.
Despite the defeat, Chile’s tournament hopes survived thanks to the competition’s tiebreaker rules.
Both sides finished with three points and identical goal differences of -3, but the hosts edged Egypt in the standings to secure second place in Group A behind leaders Japan.
Egypt’s campaign ended in disappointment despite their impressive final performance.
They had struggled in their opening matches, which ultimately cost them a place in the knockout rounds.
Their win against Chile highlighted their potential and resilience but came too late to change their fate.
For Chile, the result served as a wake-up call ahead of the round of 16.
They must address defensive lapses and show greater composure if they hope to make a deeper run in the tournament.
The South Americans will now prepare for a tougher test against a group winner, while Egypt head home reflecting on missed opportunities and narrow margins.
The match also underlined the unpredictable nature of youth football, where late drama and fine details often decide a team’s fate.
Egypt coach and players expressed pride in their final showing, knowing they had at least ended their campaign on a high.
The victory may not have delivered progression, but it showcased the team’s character and fighting spirit — qualities they can build on for future competitions.
Chile, meanwhile, advance with relief rather than celebration. Their place in the knockout stage remains intact, but they now face the challenge of regrouping quickly after a sobering defeat on home soil.
