"VAN" (Sports Desk - 04.05.2025) :: On Thursday night at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, Morocco kicked off their TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025 campaign with an exhilarating 3-2 victory over Kenya in Group B.
In a thrilling game that showcased the level of youth football in Africa, Morocco had to come from behind twice to claim the triumph. Beginning strongly, Kenya joined the U-20 AFCON for the first time since 1979. Lawrence Ouma scored with a header from Kevin Injehu's expertly placed free kick in the 16th minute, celebrating with much delight.
Morocco leveled just before half time. Yassir Zabiri scored after a box scramble, and following a quick VAR check on potential infringement, the goal was approved. This tied the score at halftime, one to one.
Even more theatrically, the second half Just ten minutes in, Zabiri headed sharply once more to put Morocco ahead 2-1. Kenya reacted in the 71st minute. After excellent collaboration with Aldrine Kibet, Hassan Beja scored from the middle of the box to tie the game at 2-2.
In the 78th minute, Morocco pushed on and reasserted control. With Reda Laalaoui's cool finish from Saad El Haddad's intelligent pass, the score became 3-2.
Morocco won a penalty in the 89th minute, but Kenyan goalkeeper Baron Ochieng saved Othmane Maamma's attempt, so retaining Kenya's hopes alive. Kenya worked tirelessly for an equalizer, and Aldrine Kibet's header struck the post late in stoppage time almost got her there. Still, Morocco retained three crucial points and led the group going after Matchday 1.
Kenya can find much to be positive from this game, especially their daring and imaginative offense. At crucial times, Morocco exhibited poise and expertise; they will be confident going into their next game.
Nigeria register opening win from Group B in U-20 AFCON
Nigeria began their search for an eighth TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations title in a tightly contested Group B opener at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo on Thursday, defeating Tunisia 1-0.
Auwal Ibrahim's first half goal guaranteed Nigeria's victory. Though Tunisia was excellent on defence, the Flying Eagles performed well in the opening phases and produced multiple opportunities. Odinaka Okoro set Ibrahim up in the 38th minute; he scored from near range to put Nigeria in front.
Though Nigeria dominated early on, a tenacious Tunisian team staged late attempts to equalize, almost scoring via Omar Ben Ali and Anis Doubal. In the 87th minute, Tunisia had their best opportunity, but Nigeria's defense and goalkeeping turned it down.
Six yellow cards divided between both teams underlined the intensity of the match. Although the second half saw more fouls, Nigeria's midfield—under Divine Oliseh and Clinton Jephta—was instrumental in maintaining control.
This victory gives Nigeria three vital points in a group including Morocco and Kenya; Tunisia, under pressure going into their next game.
With seven crowns, Nigeria—the most successful team in U-20 AFCON history—has now gone unbeaten in eight of their last ten opening matches.
Cr - AIPS
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