The FIFA U-20 World Cup kicks off in Chile on Saturday and Africa’s hopes rest on the shoulders of a powerful quartet.
Reigning continental champions South Africa, two-time finalists Nigeria, the returning Egypt and an ambitious Morocco side are each aiming to bring the coveted trophy back to Africa for the first time since 2009.
The tournament, which runs from 27 September to 19 October, is the premier stage for football’s next generation of superstars.
All eyes will be on South Africa ‘Amajita’, who arrive in South America brimming with confidence. They secured their first-ever CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations title in May after a hard-fought 1-0 final victory over Morocco in Cairo.
Coach Raymond Mdaka-led side are drawn in Group E, with the US, New Caledonia and European giants France. Their campaign begins with a heavyweight clash against 2013 champions France on Monday at the Estadio El Teniente in Rancagua.
Nigeria’s rich history
Making their 14th appearance, the Flying Eagles are Africa’s most decorated U-20 side, having reached the final in both 1989 and 2005.
The Aliyu Zubairu-led side are drawn in Group F alongside Saudi Arabia, Norway, and Colombia and are desperate to better their quarter-final exit at the hands of South Korea in 2023.
Nigeria will look to make a strong start against Norway on Monday, 29th September at the Estadio Fiscal in Talca.
Young Pharaohs end 12-year exile
After a 12-year absence, Egypt makes a highly anticipated return to the global finals for their ninth appearance.
The Young Pharaohs have a proud history in the tournament, claiming a bronze medal at the 2001 edition in Argentina.
Drawn in Group A with hosts Chile, Japan and New Zealand, they face a crucial opening match against Japan at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martínez Prádanos in Santiago on Saturday.
Atlas Cubs face group of death
Returning to the tournament for the first time in 20 years, Morocco will be looking to replicate their stunning run to a fourth-place finish at Netherlands 2005.
The Atlas Cubs, however, have been handed a treacherous path forward, drawn in a classic “Group of Death” alongside European powerhouse Spain and 2011 winners Brazil.
Coach Mohamed Ouahbi will need big performances from his European-based talent, including Watford’s Othmane Maamma and Anderlecht’s Ali Maamar, as they open their campaign against Spain on Sunday
The quest for continental glory
The ultimate goal for all the four African nations is to emulate the legendary Ghanaian side of 2009 that are the only African team to have ever won the U-20 World Cup, famously defeating Brazil.
Africa has also produced individual brilliance, with Mali’s Adama Traore (2015) and Ghana’s Dominic Adiyiah (2009) both winning the tournament’s Golden Ball award.
