Morocco booked their place in the final of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations with a narrow 1-0 victory over host nation Egypt on Thursday evening in Cairo.
In a match defined by intensity and fine margins, substitute Jones El Abdellaoui emerged as the decisive figure, netting the winner in the 77th minute to silence the home crowd and send the Atlas Lions into their first U20 AFCON final since 1997.
The tightly contested encounter saw both sides wrestle for control throughout, but it was Morocco who ultimately showed greater composure in key moments.
El Abdellaoui’s goal—his first of the tournament—proved enough to settle the semi-final and deny Egypt a shot at continental glory on home soil.
“This hard-fought victory is a testament to the Moroccan U20 team’s determination and resilience throughout the tournament,” a team spokesperson said following the final whistle.
From the outset, Morocco displayed discipline and tactical organisation, frustrating the hosts who had relied heavily on their attacking momentum and the energy of the home supporters.
Despite Egypt’s early pressure, Morocco weathered the storm and began asserting themselves as the game progressed.
Both teams entered the second half with the score still goalless, and as fatigue set in, spaces began to open. The decisive moment came with just over ten minutes remaining.
After a well-timed counter-attack, a cross from the right flank found El Abdellaoui unmarked at the far post.
The forward, who had only recently entered the match, calmly slotted the ball beneath the crossbar to give Morocco a crucial lead.
Egypt pressed forward in the final minutes in search of an equaliser, but the Moroccan defence held firm, showcasing the same discipline that had carried them through the earlier stages of the tournament.
Having topped their group and advanced through a challenging quarter-final, Morocco now prepare for a high-stakes clash in the final against South Africa, who booked their own place after a 1-0 win over Nigeria in the earlier semi-final.
With just one more match separating them from continental triumph, Morocco’s young squad is within touching distance of replicating the nation’s sole U20 AFCON title from 1997.
Victory in Sunday’s final would mark a historic second crown—and affirm their place among Africa’s rising footballing powers.
