More than two decades after their first historic face-off, Morocco and South Africa are set to clash once again in the final of the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations — a thrilling rematch of the 1997 championship that saw Morocco edge past South Africa 1-0 to claim their only title.
This Sunday, the Young Atlas Lions return with hopes of reviving that glory, while the South African squad eyes redemption and a chance to lift the trophy for the very first time.
Both teams reached the final with hard-fought 1-0 victories in Thursday’s semi-finals. South Africa narrowly defeated Nigeria thanks to a powerful header by Michael Smith, while Morocco secured a tense win over host nation Egypt, courtesy of a cool strike from Jones El Abdellaoui.
Morocco’s path to the final has been marked by a rock-solid defense and calculated, tactical play. With back-to-back clean sheets in the knockout stages, the North African side has looked disciplined and determined.
On the other hand, South Africa has been a story of resilience and growth throughout the tournament. After a rocky start, they’ve steadily built momentum and shocked fans with their spirited win over the highly-rated Nigerian Flying Eagles. Coach Vela Khumalo’s squad now carries the hopes of a nation eager to rewrite the painful memory of their 1997 defeat.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles will battle for third place in the bronze medal match, determined to return home with silverware despite missing out on the title race.
With pride, history, and continental bragging rights on the line, Sunday’s showdown promises fireworks as two footballing nations relive a rivalry nearly 30 years in the making — only this time, both sides have everything to prove.