The Black Satellites of Ghana are gearing up for a decisive encounter against hosts Egypt in the quarterfinals of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Monday, May 12.
With a place in the semifinals — and an automatic ticket to the 2025 U-20 FIFA World Cup — at stake, both sides will be aiming for victory in what promises to be a high-stakes showdown.
Ghana advanced to the knockout stage after edging the Central African Republic 1-0 in their final Group C match on Thursday.
Joseph Opoku was the hero of the night, netting the decisive goal in the 84th minute at the Suez Canal Stadium.
The Black Satellites dominated possession throughout the match but found it difficult to penetrate CAR’s resilient defense until the late breakthrough.
Ghana finished the group stage with seven points, having previously held DR Congo to a draw and defeated reigning champions Senegal. The result secured top spot in Group C.
Egypt, on the other hand, qualified for the last eight as one of the best third-placed teams. The Young Pharaohs wrapped up their Group A campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Tanzania, courtesy of an early goal by Ahmed Sharaf in the seventh minute.
Despite leading early, Egypt had to weather sustained pressure from Tanzania, who controlled much of the game but failed to capitalize on their dominance.
All eyes will be on the New Suez Stadium at 15:00 GMT on Monday as two former champions clash for a place in the final four.
Ghana, four-time U-20 AFCON winners, will look to continue their impressive run, while Egypt, buoyed by home support, are hoping to capture their fifth continental title.
The winner of this matchup will not only move one step closer to the trophy but also secure a coveted spot at the U-20 World Cup.