Flying Eagles of Nigeria have fallen to second place after Morocco launched their CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025 campaign with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Kenya on Thursday night at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, Group B.
The victory elevated the North Africans to the top of the group standings, edging out Nigeria, who had earlier beaten Tunisia 1-0, on goal difference.
Both sides now have three points, but Morocco’s three-goal haul gives them the advantage.
In a gripping contest that encapsulated the vibrancy and unpredictability of youth football, Kenya, returning to the U20 AFCON for the first time since 1979, made an early statement.
Lawrence Ouma rose above the Moroccan defence in the 16th minute to nod in Kevin Injehu’s precision free kick, sparking jubilant scenes on the Kenyan bench.
Morocco responded just before halftime. A frantic goalmouth scramble ended with Yassir Zabiri finding the net, his finish ultimately upheld by VAR after brief concerns about a possible foul in the build-up.
The equaliser ensured both sides went into the break on level terms at 1-1.
The tempo only intensified after the restart. Zabiri struck again in the 55th minute, this time with a clinical close-range header, as Morocco seized the lead for the first time.
Kenya refused to back down. Their attacking flair shone through in the 71st minute when Hassan Beja unleashed a powerful shot from inside the box after a slick exchange with Aldrine Kibet, bringing the score to 2-2.
But Morocco weren’t finished. In the 78th minute, Reda Laalaoui calmly slotted home after being picked out by a sharp Saad El Haddad pass, restoring the North Africans’ advantage at 3-2.
The drama escalated in the dying minutes. Morocco were awarded a penalty in the 89th, but Othmane Maamma’s attempt was superbly saved by Kenyan goalkeeper Baron Ochieng, keeping the contest alive.
Kenya nearly snatched a dramatic late equaliser in stoppage time, only for Aldrine Kibet’s header to cannon off the post. Despite their spirited effort, the East Africans fell short, leaving Morocco to celebrate a hard-earned three points.
Although the result didn’t favour them, Kenya showcased energy, boldness, and creativity in attack, positive signs for their campaign ahead.
Morocco, on the other hand, demonstrated resilience and maturity under pressure, setting a confident tone for their next outing.
After Matchday 1, Morocco lead Group B with three points and a +1 goal difference. Nigeria trail closely in second, also on three points but with a solitary goal to their name.
Kenya and Tunisia occupy third and fourth respectively, each with zero points and a -1 goal difference.
The Flying Eagles are set to take on Morocco in their upcoming Group B clash on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Kenya and Tunisia, both still searching for their first points, will also square off that same day, hoping to revive their tournament hopes.
