Egypt U20 qualify for Africa Cup of Nations after beating Algeria

Egypt’s U20 national team booked their place at the Africa Cup of Nations finals after defeating Algeria 2-0 in the final round of the North African qualifiers on Tuesday evening.

The Egyptian youngsters, coached by Wael Riad “Cheetos”, produced a composed performance to secure all three points and finish top of the North African qualifying standings with nine points.

Mahmoud Salah opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, rising to meet a cross with a powerful header that found the back of the net.

Egypt continued to control the contest and eventually doubled their advantage six minutes from full time.

Anas Rashdi produced a fine individual effort in the 84th minute, breaking into the Algerian penalty area from the left before firing a low shot beyond the goalkeeper to make it 2-0.

The victory confirmed Egypt’s qualification for the continental finals as group leaders, completing an impressive qualifying campaign.

Morocco had already secured their place in the tournament after defeating Egypt 2-0 last Saturday, but Egypt’s final-round victory over Algeria ensured they finished at the summit of the qualifying standings.

Egypt will now turn their attention to the U20 Africa Cup of Nations finals, where they will represent North Africa after successfully navigating the regional qualifiers.