Egypt crowned North Africa champions as Morocco slip to Libya defeat

Egypt’s Under-20 side won the North Africa qualifying tournament for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after beating Algeria 2-0 in their final match, while Morocco’s 3-2 defeat by Libya secured the Pharaohs top spot.

The final round began with Egypt, Morocco and Algeria still competing for different qualification outcomes. Egypt finished first with nine points, ahead of Morocco on seven and Algeria on four. Libya’s victory was their first of the tournament.

The next edition of the Africa Cup of Nations Under-20 tournament will be held in Ghana in February.

Egypt secure top spot

Egypt went into their match against Algeria knowing victory would guarantee both qualification and the title. Mahmoud Salah put the hosts ahead in the 22nd minute, and they carried their advantage into half-time.

Egypt thought they had doubled their lead in the 81st minute when Mohamed Raafat found the net, but the referee disallowed the goal for a challenge involving an Algerian defender. Egypt manager Wael Riyad protested the decision and was sent off.

The incident did not affect Egypt’s performance, and Anas Roshdy scored their second goal two minutes later. The result confirmed Egypt’s position at the summit of the qualifying standings with nine points.

Libya end Morocco’s unbeaten run

In the other match, Libya claimed a dramatic 3-2 win over Morocco in the race for places at the Africa Cup of Nations Under-20 tournament.

Morocco took the lead after 18 minutes when Khaled Qasbi produced a well-taken header. Libya responded in the 30th minute, with Moussa Al-Aqouri also finding the net with a header.

The Mediterranean Knights then moved in front before half-time. Abdelrahman Makary converted a penalty in the 36th minute to make it 2-1.

Libya extended their advantage in the 67th minute through Jaafar Tarek, leaving Morocco with a difficult task in the closing stages.

Morocco pushed forward and came close to scoring on several occasions, but were denied by poor finishing and luck. They eventually reduced the deficit in the 79th minute, when Moncef Mohamed struck a powerful shot into the net.

Morocco had already secured qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations Under-20 finals before the final round, having beaten Egypt 2-0 in the fourth round.