Host nation Egypt booked their place in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 with a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Ghana, following a pulsating 2-2 draw after extra time at the New Suez Stadium.
In a clash of continental heavyweights, the match had everything — goals, red cards, VAR drama, and nerve-wracking penalties.
Egypt looked in control early on, thanks to a superb brace from Momen Sherif in the 19th and 27th minutes. But Ghana, showing immense resilience, clawed their way back through a stunning strike from Aziz Issah just before half-time.
The second half was tense and tactical, with chances at both ends. Just as Egypt seemed poised to advance, VAR intervened in stoppage time to award Ghana a penalty. Abdul Sulemana stepped up and calmly equalised in the 90+11th minute, sending the match into extra time.
With momentum shifting, Ghana’s hopes were dashed in the 107th minute when Aaron Essel received a second yellow card, reducing them to ten men. Egypt pressed but couldn’t find a winner in open play.
In the shootout, Egypt converted all five of their penalties, with Abdallah Boustenji netting the decisive kick. Ghana matched them stride-for-stride until Dacosta Antwi’s miss proved costly.
The victory sends Egypt into their eighth U20 AFCON semi-final, keeping alive their dream of a fifth title. Ghana, despite a valiant campaign, exit the tournament with heads held high — but hearts heavy once again.
