U20 World Cup: Africa and its five grand finals

19.10.25 FT World Cup U-20

Argentina U20

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Morocco U20

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Morocco will be aiming to deliver Africa its second ever U20 World Cup title, following Ghana’s historic triumph in 2009 U20 World Cup. The "Atlas Cubs" will go head-to-head against Argentina on Sunday, October 19, kicking off at 11pm GMT.

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Historically, Africa has contested five finals at the FIFA U20 World Cup.

Nigeria vs Portugal (1989)

The Flying Eagles delivered a sensational World Cup campaign, including memorable wins over the Soviet Union in the quarterfinals and the United States in the semifinals. In the final, Nigeria fell to Portugal with a 0-2 defeat.

Ghana vs Brazil (1993)

The Black Satellites stunned the tournament by defeating England in the semifinals. Despite a blistering start, Ghana narrowly lost the final to Brazil, 1-2.

Argentina vs Ghana (2001)

The Black Satellites shone once again in the 2001 edition, toppling Brazil 2-1 in the quarterfinals. But in the final, they were swept aside by Nigeria with a 3-0 defeat.

Nigeria vs Argentina (2005)

Once again, Argentina denied Africa its first U20 World Cup crown, edging Nigeria 2-1 in the final.

Ghana vs Brazil (2009)

It wasn’t until the 2009 edition that Africa finally broke the jinx, with Ghana clinching the trophy after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Brazil (4-3) following a goalless draw.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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Argentina U20

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World Cup U-20