Algeria miss out as Egypt and Morocco qualify for CAN U20 2027

Algeria’s wait for a place at the Africa Cup of Nations Under-20 finals has been extended after they lost 2-0 to Egypt in the decisive UNAF qualifying match in Ismailia.

The result meant Egypt secured the second qualification place from the North African zone, while Morocco surrendered top spot after being beaten 3-2 by Libya.

The stakes were clear before Tuesday’s final round of matches. Morocco had already qualified after beating Egypt 2-0 three days earlier, while Egypt had six points and Algeria four.

Only victory would have allowed Algeria to overtake Egypt and join Morocco at the CAN U20 2027 finals in Ghana. However, the Fennecs were unable to produce the result they needed and suffered another failure to reach the continental tournament.

Algeria had begun their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Tunisia before recording a 3-1 victory over Libya. They then lost 3-1 to Morocco, leaving their qualification hopes dependent on beating Egypt in their final fixture.

Their absence from the finals will prolong a lengthy run. Algeria’s last appearance at a CAN U20 tournament came in 2013, when the country hosted the competition. Thirteen years later, the Fennecs have again fallen at the final hurdle.

Morocco had less pressure on them against Libya because their qualification had already been confirmed. The Lionceaux were nevertheless aiming to complete the campaign unbeaten and retain first place in the group.

They made an ideal start when Khalid Kasbi put Morocco ahead in the 18th minute. Libya responded before half-time, scoring twice in the 30th and 36th minutes to turn the match around.

A third Libyan goal followed in the 67th minute. Morocco reduced the deficit with 11 minutes remaining, but could not find an equaliser and lost 3-2.

The defeat was Morocco’s first in the qualifiers but did not affect their place at the finals. It did, however, cost them the lead in the final standings.

Egypt finished on nine points after beating Algeria, moving above Morocco, who remained on seven. Egypt and Morocco will therefore represent the North African zone at CAN U20 2027 in Ghana.

Final UNAF U20 tournament standings