Nigeria’s Flying Eagles are set to face South Africa in a highly anticipated semi-final clash at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Following their respective quarter-final victories, both teams have already secured their spots at this year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
South Africa beat DR Congo with a 1-0 win after extra time in Monday’s quarter-final fixture. Both sides created chances across regular time. However, it was 17-year-old Thabang Mahlangu who scored in the first half of extra time to seal the narrow victory.
Meanwhile, the Flying Eagles reached the last four after edging defending champions Senegal 3-1 in a dramatic penalty shootout. The quarter-final had ended goalless after 120 minutes of football, but Nigeria kept their cool from the spot to progress.
Thursday’s semi-final between both nations serve as a battle for continental supremacy and a shot at the U-20 AFCON title. While Nigeria are gunning for their eighth title, South Africa are chasing their first.
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Egypt, Morocco also through to World Cup after sealing last four spots
Elsewhere, host nation Egypt also clinched a World Cup berth after defeating Ghana 5-4 on penalties. The thrilling encounter had ended 2-2 after extra time before the Egyptians held their nerve to go through.
Additionally, Morocco joined the final four after a narrow 1-0 win over Sierra Leone, rounding off the semi-final lineup. With four evenly matched teams, the stage is set for a gripping end to the tournament.
The Flying Eagles will aim to add to their multiple number of continental titles. To achieve this, Nigeria must first eliminate South Africa on Thursday, May 15 and hope to also win the final.
Tags: Flying Eagles, South Africa, #U20AFCON, U-20 AFCON, U-20 World Cup, Chile, Morocco, Egypt.
