Egypt steps in as host for U20 Africa Cup of Nations after Ivory Coast withdrawal

In a significant development for African football, Egypt has been confirmed as the new host for the 2025 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (U20 AFCON).

This decision follows the unexpected withdrawal of Ivory Coast, which cited logistical challenges as the reason for stepping down just weeks before the tournament’s scheduled start on April 26, 2025.

Background

Ivory Coast’s sudden withdrawal left the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in a precarious position, scrambling to find a replacement host on short notice. Reports emerged that CAF entered into discussions with Egyptian football authorities to take over the hosting duties.

Ivory Coast U20 — The Ivorian U20 national team poses for a pre-match photo ahead of their Africa U20 Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Tournament Details

The U20 AFCON is set to take place from April 27 to May 18, 2025. The tournament will feature 12 teams divided into three groups.

The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will advance to the quarter-finals. The four semi-finalists will also secure qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.

Group Stage Draw

The draw for the tournament was conducted prior to the change in host nation. The groups are as follows:

Group A: Ivory Coast, DR Congo, Ghana, Tanzania, Central African Republic
Group B: Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa, Morocco
Group C: Senegal, Zambia, Kenya, Sierra Leone

Given Egypt’s new role as host, it is anticipated that they will assume the position previously held by Ivory Coast in Group A. However, official confirmation from CAF regarding any adjustments to the group stage lineup is still pending.

The tournament will also serve as a gateway and qualification path to the FIFA U-20 World Cup.