The 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations kicked off in style on Saturday, with hosts Egypt opening their campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 win over South Africa at the Cairo International Stadium. The tournament, featuring 13 national teams, also serves as the qualifying event for Africa’s representatives at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

🇪🇬 Egypt 1–0 South Africa 🇿🇦

Backed by a lively home crowd, Egypt edged South Africa in a tightly contested Group A opener. The breakthrough came in the 62nd minute when Mohamed Abdallah latched onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Mohamed Raafat, slotting the ball past the goalkeeper with composure.

South Africa had their moments, with Mfundo Vilakazi coming close to equalizing with a powerful strike that struck the post. Despite late pressure, the Young Pharaohs held firm to collect three valuable points.

🇿🇲 Zambia 0–0 Sierra Leone 🇸🇱

Earlier in the day, Zambia and Sierra Leone played to a goalless draw in a match that saw limited clear-cut chances. Both sides displayed defensive discipline, but lacked the finishing touch in the final third.

The tournament continues over the coming weeks, with the top teams from each group aiming to secure a place in the knockout stages and ultimately qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup later this year in Chile.

Egypt will next face Zambia, while South Africa will be looking to bounce back against Sierra Leone on Matchday 2.

Stay tuned for updates, results, and standout performances from the future stars of African football.