Zambia and tournament debutants Sierra Leone played out a 0-0 draw in the opening match of Group A at the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025.
In a closely contested affair at the Suez Canal Stadium on Sunday, both sides struggled to convert their chances in a match full of energy but lacking the clinical finishing needed to claim maximum points.
Zambia, winners of the 2017 edition, dominated possession for large spells but were repeatedly frustrated by a resilient Sierra Leone defence. Joseph Sabobo was the most lively for the Young Chipolopolo, forcing several saves from Sierra Leone goalkeeper Samba Bah, but could not find the breakthrough.
Sierra Leone, making their maiden appearance at this level, showed no signs of nerves and created opportunities of their own. Samba Bah and Nathaniel Jalloh were a constant threat going forward, while Alpha Turay came close with a header early in the first half.
In the second period, both sides grew increasingly desperate to find a winner. Zambia thought they had won it late on, with Emmanuel Mutale and David Simukonda going close, but neither could find the target.
Sierra Leone also came agonisingly close as Samba Bah saw a header saved at the death. Despite pushing forward in the final minutes, neither side was able to find the crucial breakthrough.
The result leaves Group A finely poised ahead of the evening’s second match between hosts Egypt and South Africa at Cairo International Stadium.
Zambia will take positives from the number of chances created but will rue their wastefulness in front of goal. Sierra Leone, meanwhile, can take great pride from their battling performance on their tournament debut and will hope to build on this solid start.
Both teams will now look to their next fixtures with a clearer idea of what it will take to progress to the quarter-finals in a tournament where the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed teams advance to the knockout stage.
By CAF Media
If we are not serious (play as casually & disjointed) as we did in the openings game. Egypt wiĺl have us for Supper, Breakfast, dessert, lunch and as a snack.
We need to wake up & put up a comanding performance the talent & players we have should demand it.
No individual play. Team work in attacking defending abd pressing is key.