Egypt’s Youth Clinch AFCON Qualification with Tenacious Victory over Tunisia

Egypt’s U-20 national team secured a place in the 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Tunisia in the North African Championship finale on Tuesday at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium.

The match’s defining moment came in the 55th minute, when Ahmed Kabaka fired a brilliant strike past the Tunisian goalkeeper, lifting Egypt to second place in the tournament with 7 points. This outcome ensures their qualification, along with group leaders Morocco. Tunisia, finishing third with 6 points, just missed out.

Tension in the First Half
It was intense for the first forty-five minutes. Zaalouk put Tunisia's goalie to the test early on as Egypt got off to a good start. But Tunisia took charge in the middle, opening up risky opportunities. Omar Ben Ali came close twice, his second effort in the 17th minute a squandered one-on-one opportunity.

Egypt faced a significant setback in the 41st minute as substitute Fares Khaled was sent off, reducing the Pharaohs to ten men. However, the half ended without goals.

Determination in the Second Half
Despite losing a player, Egypt showed tremendous determination in the second half. Egypt took a significant lead thanks to Kabaka's goal, which made Tunisia work hard to level.

Omar Khidr and Amouri, two replacements, launched counterattacks to assist control the game as Egypt's defense held firm against relentless Tunisian pressure. Tunisia found it hard to create clear scoring opportunities, and Egypt’s disciplined play secured a notable victory.

This result is a significant milestone for Egypt, confirming their place on the continental stage and setting the stage for an exciting AFCON campaign.