The highly anticipated AFCON U20 qualifier match between Tunisia and Egypt is underway, with both teams battling for a crucial victory. As the game progresses, tension mounts with pivotal moments shaping the outcome of this high-stakes encounter.
The match, part of the UNAF Qualifiers for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, kicked off at 5:00 p.m. local time.
In the early stages, both sides have displayed strong defensive resilience, with neither team managing to break the deadlock.
At the 42-minute mark, the score remains 0-0, though key incidents have already stirred the match.
One of the defining moments so far came at the 40th minute when Egyptian midfielder Fares Khlaed was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on a Tunisian player.
This significant dismissal leaves Egypt with just 10 players for the remainder of the match, which could prove costly in their pursuit of a goal.
In the 33rd minute, Egypt came close to taking the lead through Abdallah, whose superb strike narrowly missed the target, sparking a wave of anxiety among Tunisia’s fans.
Moments earlier, Tunisia had squandered a prime opportunity when Omar Ben Ali, left alone against the Egyptian goalkeeper, failed to find the net, much to the disappointment of his teammates.
Tunisia’s Wajdi Aissaoui also had his chance, testing Egypt’s defense with an attempt in the 12th minute, but his shot sailed just over the crossbar.
Shortly after, a Tunisian strike from Amanallah Mehrezi was deflected by an Egyptian defender, missing the target by a whisker.
The early pressure from both teams was met with solid goalkeeping on both ends.
Tunisia’s Rayane Besbes showcased his skills with a superb save just one minute into the match, denying Egypt a potential early lead.
As the match continues, both sides are pushing hard for an advantage, with Tunisia looking to capitalize on Egypt’s numerical disadvantage.
With the score still tied at 0-0, the match remains evenly poised, and the next goal could prove decisive in this critical qualifier.