Egypt coach Nabih eyes U-20 AFCON title after World Cup qualification

Egypt U-20 coach Osama Nabih says his side will “fight with all our might” to win the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, after securing a dramatic World Cup qualification with victory over Ghana in the quarter-finals.

The Pharaohs edged past the Black Satellites in a thrilling contest that ended 2-2 after extra time, before prevailing 5-4 in a tense penalty shootout in Suez on Monday night.

The result not only sealed a place in the semi-finals but also booked Egypt’s ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile later this year.

“Securing a World Cup ticket is the first part of our dream,” said Nabih. “Now we will defend it with all our might, regardless of the obstacles.”

Egypt's path to the last four has been far from smooth. A shock 4-1 defeat to Sierra Leone in the group stage had put their campaign on the brink.

But the young Pharaohs responded with grit, regrouping to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams before knocking out one of the tournament’s most consistent sides in Ghana.

“We faced difficult moments in many forms,” Nabih admitted.

“After the loss to Sierra Leone, it required heroes. And our players proved they are warriors. They showed they were the most deserving of that World Cup ticket.”

The Egypt coach also praised those who have stood behind the team during its rollercoaster journey, including Minister of Youth and Sports Ashraf Sobhi, Egyptian FA president Hany Abo Rida, and the home fans who have turned out in numbers to back the team.

“I am very grateful to the champion players who honoured their country. A special salute goes to the great Egyptian fans,” Nabih said.

Egypt now face a North African derby against Morocco in the semi-finals on Thursday at the Air Defense Stadium in Cairo.

The Atlas Lions progressed after edging Sierra Leone 1-0 in extra time.

“Morocco is a brotherly nation, but they stand in our path to the final,” said Nabih.

“We respect them, but we will give everything to reach the final and win this title. The journey is shorter now, but also more difficult.”

With the home crowd behind them and momentum on their side, Egypt are daring to dream again.