The race for continental glory and FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification intensified at the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco as Cameroon, Morocco, Egypt and Ivory Coast all secured progression from the group stage in dramatic fashion.
While some of Africa’s traditional football powers confirmed their places in the quarter-finals, Ethiopia also produced one of the standout moments of the tournament by scoring late to defeat Tunisia and keep alive hopes of reaching the FIFA U-17 World Cup through the playoffs.
Cameroon were among the biggest winners of the day after edging Congo 1-0 to book both a quarter-final place and automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.
A goal from Oumar Tsoumbing proved decisive as the Young Lions secured a hard-fought victory to finish second in Group B behind Ivory Coast.
The result completed a remarkable turnaround for Cameroon, who had begun their campaign with a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Ivory Coast.
That early setback raised concerns about their chances of progression, but the Central Africans recovered strongly when it mattered most.
Their qualification means Cameroon will once again represent Africa on the global stage at youth level, underlining the country’s continued ability to develop emerging talent despite a difficult opening match in Morocco.
Ivory Coast, meanwhile, maintained top spot in Group B after a thrilling 2-2 draw against Uganda in a four-goal contest.
The Young Elephants had already secured qualification before the final group match, but the draw ensured they finished the group unbeaten with seven points.
The Ivorians once again demonstrated their attacking quality throughout the group stage and remain among the strongest contenders for the continental title heading into the knockout rounds.
Hosts Morocco also delivered under pressure, defeating Egypt 2-1 in a decisive Group A clash to finish top of the table.
The North Africans secured all three points in front of home supporters, with one celebratory moment capturing attention as Imran Talai began sliding in celebration almost immediately after the ball found the net.
The victory ensured Morocco advanced alongside Egypt, with both countries also securing qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
For Morocco, topping the group represented an important response after opening the tournament with a draw against Tunisia.
Egypt also progressed despite defeat, highlighting the competitive nature of Group A.
With the quarter-finals now taking shape, the tournament continues to showcase the growing depth of youth football across Africa.
