U-20 AFCON: Ghana's World Cup collapses after losing to Egypt on penalty shootout

Ghana’s Black Satellites have missed out on qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile after a heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to Egypt on Monday at the New Suez Stadium.

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Egypt hold their nerve in the shootout to edge past Ghana! 🇪🇬#GHAEGY | #TotalEnergiesAFCONU20 pic.twitter.com/F06V7ozriQ

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) May 12, 2025

Coming into the quarterfinal clash unbeaten and top of Group C with seven points, coach Desmond Ofei and his team were riding a wave of confidence. Striker Jerry Afriyie, freshly rejoined from CD Lugo, was handed a starting role against the Young Pharaohs.

Despite dominating early possession, Ghana struggled to penetrate Egypt’s defense. The breakthrough came for the hosts in the 19th minute following a defensive mix-up between Dacosta Antwi and goalkeeper Gidios Aseako, allowing Momen Sherif to slot home.

Just nine minutes later, Sherif—who plays for Al-Ittihad Alexandria—doubled Egypt’s lead with a brilliant solo effort, weaving past three defenders before finishing clinically.

Ghana responded with renewed urgency and nearly pulled one back, only to be denied by a last-ditch clearance. However, their persistence paid off just before halftime when Abdul Aziz Issah scored from long range to make it 2-1.

The second half saw the Black Satellites increase the pressure. Aziz Issah came close again early on, but his effort was saved by the Egyptian goalkeeper. Ghana’s dominance was finally rewarded as they found the equaliser to bring the game level at 2-2, forcing extra time.

During extra time, Ghana maintained their attacking intent, but the Egyptians held firm. The situation worsened for the Satellites in the second half of extra time when Aaron Essel was sent off for a reckless challenge, reducing Ghana to 10 men.

With the score still level after 120 minutes, the match was decided on penalties. Ghana fell short, losing 5-4 in the shootout after Dacosta Antwi missed his attempt, while Egypt converted all their spot kicks.

The defeat means Ghana’s hopes of returning to the U-20 World Cup for the first time since 2015 have been crushed, ending a promising campaign in heartbreak.