AFCON U-20: Egypt edge Ghana on penalties to reach semi-finals
Egypt secured a place in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 with a tense 5-4 penalty shootout win over Ghana, following a 2-2 draw after regulation and extra time at the New Suez Stadium.
In a clash between African youth football heavyweights, the match delivered drama late into the night, with Egypt prevailing against a determined Ghana side reduced to 10 men after Aaron Essel’s red card in extra time.
Egypt took early control with a brace from Momen Sherif. He opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a powerful shot from inside the box and doubled the lead in the 27th after Ghana failed to clear their lines.
Ghana responded just before half-time, as Aziz Issah fired in a left-footed strike from outside the box to cut the deficit heading into the break.
The second half was tense and tactical, with both teams pressing for a breakthrough. Egypt appeared set to advance, but in the 90th minute, VAR awarded Ghana a penalty after a foul on Joseph Opoku.
Abdul Sulemana converted from the spot to make it 2-2, sending the match into extra time. Neither side could find a winner in the additional 30 minutes.
In the shootout, Ghana’s Issah, Marfo, Opoku, and Aziz scored, but Dacosta Antwi’s effort was saved. Egypt remained perfect from the spot with Abdin, Kabaka, El Deen Essam, Raafat, and Boustenji all converting.
With the victory, Egypt advance to the semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of a continental title on home soil.
