In a resounding display of talent and determination, the Egypt U-17 national team clinched the North African Championship title with a formidable 7-1 victory against Libya, securing their place in the 2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Held amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Casablanca, Morocco, the tournament was a pivotal qualifier for the upcoming continental showdown in Ivory Coast.
From the onset, Egypt established their dominance. Hamza Abdelkarem ignited the scoreboard in the 3rd minute with a precise strike, setting the tone for what would become an Egyptian showcase. By the 27th minute, Mohamed Hamd had doubled their advantage, delivering a powerful shot that left the Libyan defense reeling.
The second half saw Egypt accelerating their momentum. Hamd, in a stunning solo effort post-halftime, added another goal in the 47th minute. Abdelkarem, not to be outdone, finished a fluid team move for the fourth goal. Belal Ateya then exploited a goalkeeping blunder to extend Egypt’s lead further in the 63rd minute.
Libya’s Mondher El-Qamati’s solitary goal in the 73rd minute was a brief respite, overshadowed by Ateya’s late-game heroics. Completing his hat-trick with strikes in the 84th minute and stoppage time, Ateya cemented Egypt’s emphatic win.
The UNAF U-17 Tournament, structured with five teams in a single group, offered the top two spots direct qualification to AFCON 2025. Egypt emerged at the apex with nine points, trailing Morocco and Tunisia, set to join them in the tournament hosted by the Ivory Coast.
In a post-match interview, head coach Ahmed El-Kass lauded his team’s resilience, particularly after a 5-1 defeat against Morocco earlier in the competition. “Our journey wasn’t without challenges, but we pushed through,” he commented, highlighting strategic victories over Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya that showcased Egypt’s potential.
Egypt’s qualification not only promises thrilling competition in 2025 but also sets the stage for potential participation in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar. Dr. Jamal Mahmoud, a respected sports analyst, asserts, “This victory is more than a title; it’s a crucial step in nurturing future stars for the senior national team.”
Moreover, with Egypt’s last AFCON title win dating back to 1997, the expectations for making a significant impact are high. The tournament offers an opportunity for Egyptian football to shine on the international stage, reaffirming the nation’s rich footballing legacy.
As the countdown to AFCON 2025 begins, the Egyptian U-17 team remains under the spotlight. Can they capitalize on their current momentum to reclaim continental glory and secure a berth in the World Cup? The journey promises to be as exhilarating as the victory that launched it. Stay tuned to MEO for comprehensive coverage and exclusive insights as Egypt gears up for these pivotal contests.
