U-17 AFCON: Stage set for semi-finals as Egypt, Tanzania, Morocco and Senegal battle for a place in the final

The semi-final stage of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (U-17 AFCON) takes centre stage on Thursday in Rabat, with four nations chasing a place in the continental final.

The opening fixture will see Egypt take on surprise package Tanzania at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium before hosts Morocco clash with defending champions Senegal later in the evening.

Although all four teams have already secured qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, attention has now shifted to the race for the African title and a place in Tuesday’s final.

Egypt Aim to End Tanzania’s Fairytale Run

Egypt head into the semi-finals full of confidence after producing one of the most dominant quarter-final performances of the tournament with a 4-1 victory over Côte d’Ivoire.

Khaled Mokhtar scored twice as the Young Pharaohs took control of the contest before half-time, continuing their impressive balance between defensive organisation and attacking efficiency.

Coach Hussein Abdel Latif has built a side capable of punishing opponents quickly, and that sharpness could prove decisive against a resilient Tanzanian team.

Tanzania have emerged as one of the tournament’s biggest stories after reaching the last four through a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Algeria following a thrilling 3-3 draw.

The Serengeti Boys had earlier topped Group C and continue to impress with their determination and fearless style of play.

Coach Elieneza Nsanganzelu declared after qualification for the World Cup that his team had completed their “first mission” and were now targeting the continental crown.

Key figures including Abel Josiah, goalkeeper Abrahman Nassoro and captain Kassim Juma have all played major roles in Tanzania’s memorable campaign.

Morocco and Senegal Renew Rivalry

The second semi-final promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament as Morocco prepare to face Senegal in front of home support in Rabat.

The young Atlas Lions booked their place in the last four with a narrow 1-0 victory over Cameroon thanks to an early strike from Mohamed Habib Zinbi.

Goalkeeper Rayan Yaakoubi also delivered an important performance as the hosts survived late pressure to preserve their hopes of defending the title on home soil.

Under coach Tiago Lima Pereira, Morocco have looked composed throughout the tournament after topping Group A and maintaining a strong balance between attack and defence.

Senegal, however, arrive with their own reputation for resilience after overcoming Mali in dramatic fashion during the quarter-finals.

Despite playing with ten men and conceding a late equaliser, the Young Lions of Teranga prevailed 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

Goalkeeper Assane Sarr proved decisive in the shootout, while Souleymane Commissaire Fay and Cheikh Amadou Tidiane Diallo have continued to provide leadership and attacking threat throughout the competition.

Two Finalists to Be Decided

For Tanzania, the semi-final represents an opportunity to continue one of East African football’s most inspiring youth stories. Egypt, meanwhile, are aiming to return to the continental final with authority and confidence.

Morocco will attempt to keep their title defence alive in front of home supporters, while Senegal hope to once again demonstrate the fighting spirit that has carried them through difficult moments in the tournament.

By the end of the night in Rabat, the continent will know the two nations set to compete for the U-17 AFCON crown.