U20 AFCON: Ghana Edged Out by Egypt in Penalty Shootout, Missing World Cup Spot

Ghana’s Black Satellites faced a heart-wrenching exit from the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after losing 5-4 on penalties to the host nation, Egypt. The match, held at the New Suez Stadium on Monday, ended dramatically in a 2-2 draw following extra time.

This loss not only concluded Ghana’s AFCON journey but also eliminated their chances of qualifying for the FIFA U20 World Cup, as only the four semi-finalists from the tournament secure a spot in the global event.

The quarter-final showdown started with intense energy, as Egypt struck first with a rapid double from Momen Sherif. The Egyptian forward capitalised on two critical defensive errors from Ghana, giving Egypt early control of the match.

In response to the two-goal disadvantage, Ghana regrouped and managed to score just before half-time. Aziz Issah unleashed a powerful left-footed shot from outside the penalty area, injecting new hope into the Ghanaian squad as they headed into the break.

The second half unfolded as a gripping tactical contest, with Ghana pressuring for an equaliser while Egypt remained resolute at the back. As the match entered stoppage time, Ghana’s relentless efforts bore fruit.

Thanks to VAR’s intervention, the Black Satellites were awarded a penalty following a foul on Joseph Opoku in the box. Substitute Hakim Sulemana stepped up confidently to convert a spot-kick in the 101st minute, equalising the match at 2-2 and forcing extra time.

Both teams sought a decisive goal during the additional 30 minutes, but Ghana faced a significant setback when defender Aaron Essel received a red card for a last-man tackle in the 107th minute.

Despite being a man down, Ghana’s defence held strong as Egypt pressed for a late goal; opportunities fell to Omar Fathy and Amr Khaled, yet neither side could break the deadlock, leading to the penalty shootout.

In the tense shootout, both Ghana and Egypt displayed composure. Aziz Issah, Denis Marfo, Joseph Opoku, and Musibau Aziz successfully converted their penalties for Ghana, although a save kept Dacosta Antwi from scoring. In contrast, Egypt was flawless in their assessment from the spot, with Ahmed Abdin, Ahmed Khaled, Seif El Deen Essam, Mohamed Raafat, and Abdallah Bostangy each scoring to secure a 5-4 triumph.

This defeat marks a bitter end for the Black Satellites, who needed to reach the semi-finals to qualify for the U20 World Cup for the first time since 2015.

Despite a determined comeback and a commendable effort with ten players, Ghana’s campaign ended in disappointment, reminiscent of past heartaches against Egypt, including the final loss in 2013.

On the other hand, Egypt progresses to their eighth U20 AFCON semi-final and is still in the hunt for a fifth continental title.