Africa’s representation at the FIFA U-20 Men’s World Cup Chile 2025 now rests solely on Morocco, following the eliminations of Nigeria and South Africa in the Round of 16.
Both teams suffered painful exits on Wednesday, joining Egypt — who had earlier crashed out in the group stage — to leave Morocco as the continent’s only surviving nation in the global youth tournament.
Read Also: FIFA 2026 WCQ: Salah Brace Inspires Egypt’s Qualification as Ghana Thrash CAR to Close In
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles endured a disappointing 4–0 defeat to South American giants Argentina in Santiago.
The two-time finalists were undone by two quick goals inside the opening 20 minutes, a setback that left them struggling to recover despite several second-half adjustments.
Argentina’s superior pace and clinical finishing proved decisive, with their captain sealing the win with a late brace.
Speaking after the match, Head Coach Aliyu Zubair took full responsibility for the defeat, admitting that his side’s early lapses proved costly.
“We conceded too early and allowed Argentina to dictate the game. I take full responsibility for the loss,” Zubair said.
In Valparaíso, South Africa’s Amajita battled valiantly against European heavyweights France but fell 3–1 after extra time. The young South Africans held their opponents to a 1–1 draw in regulation time before fatigue took its toll in the added period.
Despite the loss, Coach Thabo Senong commended his players’ courage and discipline, describing the campaign as an important learning experience.
With Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt now out, Morocco remains Africa’s last hope at the championship.
The Atlas Cubs, who impressed in the group stage with victories over Spain and Brazil, will face South Korea in the Round of 16 early Friday morning (00:00 GMT).
African fans will now look to Morocco to carry the continent’s flag high and push for a historic quarter-final berth at Chile 2025.
