Egypt and Zambia Share Spoils in U20 AFCON Stalemate
Host nation Egypt were held to a goalless draw by a resilient Zambian side on Saturday night in Ismailia, in their second Group A match of the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025.
The result leaves Egypt with four points from two games, following a 1-0 victory over South Africa and an earlier defeat to Sierra Leone. Zambia, meanwhile, recorded their second consecutive draw after being held by Sierra Leone in their opening match.
Despite the lack of goals, both teams created notable chances and showed attacking intent. Egypt nearly broke the deadlock in the second half when Ahmed Kabaka’s powerful long-range strike crashed against the crossbar in the 67th minute. Shortly after, Mohamed Zaalouk came close but missed narrowly from close range.
Zambia were not without threat either. Forward Joseph Sabobo and winger David Simukonda caused problems for the Egyptian defense, with Simukonda missing a crucial chance in added time after breaking free on goal.
The first half saw both teams evenly matched. Mohamed Abdallah tested Zambia’s goalkeeper Leevison Banda early on, while Sabobo’s low shot missed the target at the other end.
Egypt introduced substitutes in the second half to spark a breakthrough, but Zambia’s defensive pairing of Charles Buyoya and Happy Nsiku remained composed under pressure, ensuring their side kept a clean sheet.
With Sierra Leone topping the group with six points after their win over Tanzania, Egypt sit second and Zambia third. The final group fixtures will be decisive—Egypt need at least a draw to progress, while Zambia must secure a win to qualify for the knockout stage.
Courtesy of CAF
