The group stage of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations concluded on Friday, cementing the standings across all three groups and confirming the teams advancing to the quarter-finals.
In Group A, a rare three-way tie emerged at the top, with South Africa, Sierra Leone, and Egypt each finishing on seven points.
All three sides have displayed consistent form throughout the group stage, securing their places in the knockout phase.
Zambia, despite putting up a strong fight with six points, narrowly missed out, while Tanzania ended their campaign without registering a single point.
Group B saw Morocco finish in first place with seven points, underlining their dominance in the group.
Nigeria followed with five points to book their quarter-final ticket, while Tunisia’s campaign ended in disappointment with just three points.
Kenya, with a solitary point, finished at the bottom of the group.
In Group C, Ghana emerged as group winners with seven points, continuing their reputation as a strong force in youth football.
Senegal and DR Congo each collected four points, but goal difference and head-to-head records are expected to determine which team advances.
The Central African Republic finished last in the group with one point and exit the tournament.
The group stage results have drawn a clear line between the title contenders and the teams that failed to live up to expectations.
Tunisia, Zambia, and Tanzania are among those bowing out earlier than hoped, while nations like Morocco, Ghana, and South Africa head into the quarter-finals with momentum on their side.
“This phase confirmed the good form of some teams, who will remain in contention for the quarterfinals. Others, such as Tunisia, Zambia, and Tanzania, must return earlier than expected,” a tournament spokesperson noted.
The knockout rounds promise intense clashes as Africa’s top youth teams battle for continental glory and the opportunity to showcase emerging talent on a grand stage.
With the group phase complete, anticipation now turns to the next round, where the pressure and stakes are set to rise dramatically.
