African Teams Qualify for FIFA U20 Men's World Cup

Africa's representatives for the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025™ have been confirmed as Morocco, Nigeria, Egypt, and South Africa. These teams secured their places by reaching the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, following hard-fought quarter-final victories characterized by tension, drama, and high stakes.
Morocco was the first to qualify, narrowly defeating Sierra Leone 1-0 after extra time with a late own goal in the 115th minute. This victory ended Sierra Leone's debut campaign. Egypt secured their spot after a comeback against Ghana, forcing penalties with a last-gasp equalizer and winning the shootout 5-4. Nigeria, a decorated U20 side, advanced by defeating defending champions Senegal on penalties, marking their record 14th appearance at the U20 World Cup.
South Africa completed the quartet with a 1-0 extra-time win over DR Congo, with Thabang Mahlangu scoring the decisive goal. According to the South African Football Association (SAFA), this win was a result of the team's determination to secure qualification for the World Cup in Chile in September 2025.
SAFA President Dr. Danny Jordaan congratulated the team, acknowledging their hard work. He also referenced the team's qualification for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the FIFA U17 World Cup to be held in Qatar from November 3-27, 2025.
U20 Coach Raymond Mdaka acknowledged the match's challenges, noting the opponent's good plan. He said the team was fortunate not to concede early, managed to adjust, and ultimately secured the winning goal.
The FIFA U-20 World Cup is scheduled to take place in Chile from September 27 to October 19, 2025.