The official draw for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup has been completed, setting the stage for the prestigious youth tournament to kick off in Chile on 27 September.
With six groups of four nations, the path to glory is now clearly laid out for the 24 participating teams.
Africa will be strongly represented, with four teams — South Africa, Morocco, Nigeria, and Egypt — all discovering their group-stage opponents following Thursday’s draw.
Reigning African champions South Africa have been placed in Group E, where they will take on a challenging trio: the United States, tournament newcomers New Caledonia, and a resurgent France.
The Amajita will be aiming to build on their continental triumph with a strong showing on the global stage.
Morocco, runners-up in the recent U20 Africa Cup of Nations, face arguably the most daunting assignment.
Drawn in Group C, the Atlas Cubs will square off against five-time champions Brazil, two-time finalists Mexico, and European powerhouse Spain.
The group is already being widely dubbed the “group of death” for its depth of quality and fierce competition.
Nigeria, one of the most successful African nations at youth level, will compete in Group F.
The Flying Eagles will test their mettle against Colombia, Saudi Arabia, and Norway.
With a strong history in the competition, Nigeria will be hopeful of making another deep run.
Egypt, the final African side in the tournament, have been drawn into Group A alongside hosts Chile, New Zealand, and Japan.
The Pharaohs will open their campaign against stiff opposition but will be optimistic about advancing from a relatively balanced group.
The full group draw is as follows:
Group A: Chile, New Zealand, Japan, Egypt
Group B: South Korea, Ukraine, Paraguay, Panama
Group C: Brazil, Mexico, Morocco, Spain
Group D: Italy, Australia, Cuba, Argentina
Group E: USA, New Caledonia, France, South Africa
Group F: Colombia, Saudi Arabia, Norway, Nigeria
The tournament’s curtain-raiser will see host nation Chile take on New Zealand.
As anticipation builds for the month-long competition, participating nations will now turn their attention to final preparations, knowing that the battle for the U20 world crown promises excitement, drama, and emerging stars.
