Egypt sealed their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations with a narrow 1-0 win over Tanzania on Thursday, capping off a turbulent group stage campaign with a result that keeps their title hopes alive.
The hosts entered the final matchday of Group A under pressure, knowing only a victory would give them a chance to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
While the performance was far from dominant, the result proved enough to secure passage to the knockout rounds.
Despite inconsistency in their earlier outings, the young Pharaohs displayed grit and determination to edge past a stubborn Tanzanian side at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia.
The solitary goal was enough to lift Egypt to seven points—level with both South Africa and Sierra Leone—and into third place on goal difference.
“A difficult course but a deserved qualification,” read one post-match analysis, reflecting the broader sentiment of Egypt’s campaign so far.
With this win, Egypt join South Africa and Sierra Leone as the three teams advancing from Group A.
All three sides finished with identical point totals, with final standings determined by goal differential.
Zambia, who ended the group stage on six points, narrowly missed out, while Tanzania exited without registering a single point.
“Despite an inconsistent performance, the young Pharaohs showed resilience to secure the three points, confirming their presence in the next round despite often difficult matches since the start of the tournament.”
The group’s final standings are as follows:
- South Africa – 7 points
- Sierra Leone – 7 points
- Egypt – 7 points
- Zambia – 6 points
- Tanzania – 0 points
While the result brings relief and renewed hope to the Egyptian camp, there is a general understanding that the team must significantly improve if they are to challenge for the continental crown and secure a spot at the U20 World Cup.
“With this victory, the Egyptians finished third in the group, buoyed by a fervent public but aware that they will have to raise their game to aim for the continental title and qualification for the U20 World Cup.”
The quarter-final stage now awaits, and Egypt will look to build on this hard-fought win as they prepare for a much tougher test in the knockout rounds.
