Keita own goal sends Morocco into last four, books World Cup ticket

Morocco edged debutants Sierra Leone 1-0 in extra time to book their place in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025, thanks to a dramatic late own goal from Amara Keita.

The tense quarter-final clash at the 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo on Monday saw the North Africans dominate proceedings but struggle to break down a resolute Sierra Leone defence. 

It was a heartbreaking end for the tournament debutants, who pushed Morocco all the way before a cruel deflection settled the tie.

The decisive moment arrived in the 115th minute when Keita inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure, giving Morocco a place in the final four and sealing their qualification for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile later this year.

Sierra Leone’s resistance was gallant throughout, despite being reduced to ten men in regulation time. Substitute Samba Bah was sent off following a VAR review in the 90th minute for a reckless challenge, leaving the West Africans to navigate extra time a man down.

Morocco, Group B winners and one of the tournament favourites, had entered the match unbeaten in their last 12 games in open play at the U20 AFCON.

Despite creating several chances through Jones El Abdellaoui, Ismaël Baouf, and Adam El Mokhtari, they were repeatedly denied by the heroics of Sierra Leone goalkeeper Mohamed Bai Kamara and a stubborn backline.

Sierra Leone had their own moments of threat, notably through talisman Momoh Kamara, whose long-range effort in the 113th minute forced a fine save. However, the West Africans—who had stunned hosts Egypt 4-1 in the group stage—couldn’t find the breakthrough this time.

For Morocco, the win marks their second semi-final appearance since 2005 and maintains their unbeaten run at the 2025 finals.

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi's side showed patience and composure, eventually breaking down a well-drilled opponent who had conceded the most goals of any team in the quarter-finals.

Sierra Leone exit the tournament with pride, having exceeded expectations in their first-ever U20 AFCON appearance. With standout performances from Kamara and Alpha Turay, they have left a strong impression on the continental stage.

Morocco will now look ahead to a semi-final clash with either South Africa or DR Congo, confident in their defensive resilience and tactical discipline.