The Atlas Cubs have booked their place in the U20 Africa Cup of Nations final after defeating host nation Egypt 1-0 on Thursday, May 15, in Cairo. The decisive goal came in the 78th minute, scored by Jones El Abdellaoui following a cross from Ismaël Aouad, who was set up brilliantly by Houssam Essadak. The goal, crafted by two substitutes, highlighted the tactical insight of coach Mohamed Ouahbi and his staff.
While Morocco’s performance wasn’t dazzling, they got the job done in a scrappy and tightly contested match, marked by frequent fouls and few clear-cut chances. The Pharaohs, timid and ineffective (no shots on target), ceded control to a more willing Moroccan side that nevertheless lacked sharpness in the final third. The efforts of players like Essadak and Laalaoui helped maintain constant pressure, though the Egyptian keeper remained largely untroubled until the lone goal.
This victory sends Morocco to the final for the third time in this age category. The Atlas Cubs will aim to capture a second continental title when they face South Africa this Sunday, May 18, at 7 p.m. Against a more attacking team than Egypt, the Moroccans will need to step up—particularly in their offensive play—if they hope to lift the trophy.
