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CAF U20 AFCON Semifinalists Determined

The semi-final line-up for the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 is set, with Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa emerging as the continent’s final four after navigating tough group stage campaigns and dramatic quarter-final battles.

Each side followed a distinct path to reach the last four of the prestigious youth tournament, booking not just semi-final spots but also their tickets to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

Here’s how each team travelled from the group stage to book their spot in the semi-finals:

Egypt rise from group struggle to edge Ghana
Host nation Egypt endured a turbulent group stage in Group A. A 1-0 win over South Africa in the opening match was followed by a shock 4-1 loss to Sierra Leone.

They narrowly secured qualification as one of the best third-placed teams after a goalless draw with Tanzania.

In the quarter-finals, the young Pharaohs pulled off a dramatic comeback against Ghana, clawing back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2, before holding their nerve to win 5-4 on penalties.

Coach Osama Nabih described the moment as “the first part of our dream,” with the team now focused on going all the way.

Morocco’s unbeaten run continues
Morocco topped Group B with an unbeaten run, defeating Kenya 3-2 and Tunisia 3-1, and holding Nigeria to a goalless draw.

The Atlas Lions impressed with their attacking depth and strong defensive record, conceding just three times in three matches.

Their quarter-final against Sierra Leone was a tense affair. With the match still goalless deep into extra time, Morocco were gifted a winner through an own goal by Amara Keita in the 115th minute.

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi praised Sierra Leone as “a tough opponent” but stressed that Morocco “deserve to dream big.”

Nigeria show champion pedigree
The Flying Eagles were businesslike in Group B, defeating Tunisia 1-0, drawing with Morocco, and playing out a thrilling 2-2 draw with Kenya to top the group.

Their quarter-final was a heavyweight clash with defending champions Senegal, where Nigeria kept their composure in a tense goalless draw that went to penalties.

A 3-1 win in the shootout marked Nigeria’s 14th qualification for a U-20 World Cup, further cementing their status as the most successful African team at this level.

South Africa find rhythm at the right time
South Africa’s journey began with a gritty 1-0 win over Tanzania, followed by a 1-0 defeat to Egypt and a commanding 4-1 win over Sierra Leone in Group A.

Finishing top of the group, Amajita met DR Congo in the quarter-finals in a physically demanding match.

Shakeel April set up Thabang Mahlangu for the decisive extra-time winner, sending South Africa through to the semi-finals and the World Cup.

Semi-final Fixtures – Thursday, 15 May
Nigeria vs South Africa – Suez Canal Stadium, Ismailia (15:00 GMT)

Morocco vs Egypt – 30 June Stadium, Cairo (18:00 GMT)

With a place in the final and a shot at continental glory at stake, these four African giants are now just one win away from the showpiece event.

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Fikayo Tomori Explains Why He Chose England Over Nigeria

Fikayo Tomori in England national team jersey

AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori has opened up on his decision to represent England on the international stage, explaining that the Nigerian Football Federation never officially contacted him.

Tomori, who initially represented Canada at youth level, later switched allegiance to England, earning five senior caps to date. While several English youth internationals with Nigerian heritage, including Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman, have opted for the Super Eagles, Tomori’s path led him to the Three Lions.

Tomori On His Decision

Speaking on the Filthy Fellas Podcast, Tomori outlined how England reached out after his stint with Canada’s youth team:

“I was playing for the Canada youth team, but about four months later, the England Academy manager reached out about the possibility of switching over. The next international break, England called me, and I knew I had to go. I thought if I said no, would I ever get a call-up again?”

He added that the transition felt natural because many of his Chelsea teammates, like Tammy Abraham, were already in the England setup.

“It didn’t feel different [from Canada] because all my friends were in there… it felt like Chelsea again,” Tomori said.

Nigeria’s Missed Opportunity

Tomori admitted that if Nigeria had made an approach, he might have considered playing for the Super Eagles.

“If it was Nigeria, I’d have gone,” he stated.

However, he clarified that no official call ever came, leaving him with no real choice.

“Would I have changed to Nigeria from England? I don’t know because at the time, I was playing for Chelsea, so I thought I would play for England. It’s not like I wouldn’t have played there, but they never called me, so I never had a choice to make.”

As Tomori continues to establish himself in Serie A with Milan, he now focuses on securing a spot in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, hoping to make his mark on football’s biggest stage.

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Wilfred Ndidi Backed By Sunday Oliseh As The Next Super Eagles Captain

Sunday Oliseh Supports Wilfred Ndidi For Super Eagles Captaincy

The conversation around the future leadership of the Super Eagles just got louder—and a lot more interesting.
Former Super Eagles head coach Sunday Oliseh has openly declared his preferred choice for the next captain… and his pick is none other than midfield powerhouse Wilfred Ndidi.

With William Troost-Ekong officially hanging up his international boots, the captain’s armband is now up for grabs. But if Oliseh had his way? The decision is easy.

Why Oliseh Wants Ndidi To Lead Nigeria

On his podcast, Oliseh Insight, the former Juventus and Dortmund star explained why Ndidi stands out among all current Super Eagles players. According to him, the Leicester-turned-Besiktas midfielder commands massive respect, shows unmatched professionalism, and consistently gives his all every game.

Oliseh put it plainly:

“At the moment, I think nobody doubts the respect the players have for Ndidi. And he’s a player that plays every game.”

This isn’t surprising. Ndidi has built a reputation as one of Africa’s most reliable midfielders—calm, disciplined, hardworking, and battle-tested.

Leadership To Match The Moment

Oliseh, known for bold captaincy calls (remember when he chose Musa over Mikel?), believes Nigeria’s next skipper must be more than a figurehead.
To him, the Super Eagles need a leader who:

Inspires the squad
Commands respect naturally
Communicates effectively
Represents the team with integrity
Leads on and off the pitch—not just someone who follows NFF instructions

In his words, the armband shouldn’t just be decorative. It should mean direction, strength, and identity. And Ndidi, in his view, fits that profile perfectly.

A New Era For The Super Eagles?

The timing of this debate couldn’t be more crucial. Nigeria is gearing up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where they’ll face Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in Group C.

Leadership matters in tournaments. Momentum matters. And the right captain could set the tone for the entire journey toward Morocco.

Will Ndidi rise as the next leader?
Will the NFF agree with Oliseh?
Or will another name emerge from the squad?

Whatever happens, the conversation is officially on—and the sports world is paying attention.

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William Troost-Ekong Bows Out: An Emotional Farewell That Shakes Up The Super Eagles Camp

William Troost-Ekong Bows Out In Emotional Goodbye

Super Eagles fans woke up to unexpected news as captain William Troost-Ekong officially announced his retirement from international football. Despite being listed in Eric Chelle’s 54-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025, the 2023 AFCON MVP revealed via a heartfelt video on X (formerly Twitter) that his journey with Nigeria had reached its final chapter.

The announcement came with a touching message:
“HONOURED. GRATEFUL. FOREVER A SUPER EAGLE. Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life. The journey may end here, but my support never will. Here’s to the next chapter.”

With 83 caps in 10 years, Ekong leaves behind a legacy of leadership, consistency, and unmatched patriotism. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the 2023 AFCON final and became one of the most respected voices in the national team.

Why Now? A Transition Already In Motion

In recent months, Troost-Ekong’s role had gradually shifted. The impressive rise of 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick pushed him out of the starting XI, reducing the captain to a bench role. One of the most emotional revelations was his admission that he was supposed to take a penalty in Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier shootout against DR Congo—but being benched meant he couldn’t step up.

Still, Ekong showed class:
“I wasn’t frustrated; I just wanted to win this game… My role is to support the team as much as possible, both on and off the pitch.”

He had also hinted earlier this year that AFCON 2025 might be his final tournament, showing that this transition wasn’t entirely sudden—it was coming.

Ndidi Tipped To Take The Captain’s Armband

The big question now is: who leads the Super Eagles?
Former coach Sunday Oliseh believes the answer is simple—Wilfred Ndidi.

Ndidi has captained the team in recent matches and commands full respect in the squad. According to Oliseh:
“Nobody doubts the respect the players have for Ndidi. And he’s a player that plays every game.”

With AFCON 2025 approaching quickly, stability is crucial—and Ndidi might be the perfect bridge into Nigeria’s next era.

A Legacy Forever Etched In Nigerian Football

Troost-Ekong leaves as a true patriot: admired, respected, and loved. His leadership transcended the pitch—he was the voice of calm, the anchor in tough moments, and the embodiment of commitment.

For the Super Eagles, a new chapter begins.
But for fans, William Troost-Ekong will always remain a Super Eagle—forever.