Tunisia’s hopes of reaching the quarter-finals of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations were dashed on Friday, as host nation Egypt claimed the final qualification slot from the group stage.
After suffering a 3-1 defeat to Morocco in their final Group B match on Wednesday, Tunisia finished third in the group with three points—earned from a single victory over Kenya.
Their progression depended on results from other groups, as they vied for one of the two best third-placed team spots alongside Egypt, Zambia, and South Africa.
The decisive blow came at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia, where Egypt secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Tanzania.
The result moved the hosts to seven points in Group A, placing them third behind South Africa and Sierra Leone—both also finishing on seven points, but with a superior goal difference.
Egypt’s tally was enough to claim one of the two coveted best third-place positions, effectively ending Tunisia’s campaign.
“Ultimately, their journey ended in the first round.
And for good reason, Fares Bousnina and his teammates were eliminated in the race by the Egyptians, who finished third in Group A with 7 points, after winning against Tanzania (0-1) this Thursday at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia.”
FIN TEMPS !
L’Égypte s’impose de justesse 1-0 face à la Tanzanie. 🇪🇬#TotalEnergiesAFCONU20 | #TANEGY pic.twitter.com/a5mgx41peu
— CAF – FR (@caf_online_FR) May 9, 2025
Elsewhere, South Africa’s 1-1 draw with Zambia at Cairo’s June 30 Stadium was sufficient to guarantee top spot in Group A.
Zambia, meanwhile, joined Tunisia on the list of teams exiting the tournament early.
Tunisia’s elimination marks a disappointing end for the Aiglons de Carthage, who have historically only reached the semi-final stage on two occasions.
Their early departure is seen as a significant setback, particularly as they entered the final group matchday with a chance—albeit slim—of advancing.
“A huge snub for the Tunisians. Especially since they had only participated in two semi-finals.”
For Egypt, the result not only secures a place in the quarter-finals but also serves as a measure of redemption following their group-stage exit as hosts in the previous edition.
With momentum now in their favour and home support behind them, the young Pharaohs will look to go deeper into the tournament this time around.
“Egypt is taking revenge after being eliminated on home soil in the previous edition as group winners.”
