Sierra Leone is aiming to secure the top spot in Group A of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations while Zambia desperately seeks a victory against Tanzania to keep their tournament hopes alive. The two teams will clash at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia, Egypt, on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, with Zambia kicking off the day’s action against Tanzania at 17:00.
The Junior Chipolopolo, as Zambia is known, currently sits at the bottom of the group with just two points, having drawn their first two matches 0-0 against Sierra Leone and Egypt. They are in dire need of a win to stay in contention for a place in the knockout stages. Meanwhile, the Ngorongoro Boys of Tanzania have yet to earn a point, suffering two narrow 1-0 defeats against South Africa and the Shooting Stars.
In the later match, Sierra Leone will look to maintain their unbeaten record as they face South Africa at 20:00. Coach Mustapha Dumbuya’s side has been impressive thus far, scoring five goals in the tournament, including a stunning 4-1 victory over the Young Pharaohs of Egypt on April 30. They have also shown resilience defensively, conceding only one goal throughout their campaign.
As the tournament progresses, Sierra Leone’s captain and star player, Momoh Kamara, has emerged as one of the standout talents. His performances have drawn significant attention from scouts around the world, and he is set to join Major League Soccer’s Minnesota United after the tournament. Kamara’s journey has not been without challenges, as he faced obstacles during his early career in Europe. Yet, his determination and talent have led him to shine on the continental stage.
“It’s a wonderful story because we were involved in a project with a Nigerian club to promote players,” said Kamara’s agent, Giulio D'Alessandro, reflecting on the player’s rise. “Momoh is a player who can play as a #10 or #8 in a 4-3-3 or 3-5-2. He has impressive technique and control, and he can protect the ball very well.”
On the other hand, South Africa’s Under-20 head coach, Raymond Mdaka, has laid out a strategy for his team to secure a victory against Sierra Leone. Amajita, who currently have three points after a win against Tanzania, are looking to build on their momentum. Mdaka emphasized the importance of fitness and tactical preparation in the lead-up to the match.
“The only thing that we have put in our minds is to play to our strengths, and do what we do best, irrespective of who we come up against,” said Mdaka. “We have explored the key areas of this match, and we have identified the strengths and weaknesses of the opposition.”
As the teams prepare for their crucial encounters, the stakes are high. Sierra Leone is already assured of a place in the quarterfinals, leading Group A with seven points, while Zambia and Tanzania are fighting for survival. Both matches promise to deliver excitement and drama as teams vie for their respective goals.
With the tournament showcasing some of the brightest young talents in African football, scouts and agents are flocking to Egypt to identify the next generation of stars. The Africa U-20 Cup of Nations has become a pivotal platform for aspiring players, and the current edition is no exception.
As the clock ticks down to kick-off, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the matches unfold. Will Zambia finally secure their first win, or will Tanzania pull off a surprise? Can Sierra Leone maintain their unbeaten run against a determined South African side? The answers lie just moments away as the teams take to the pitch in Ismailia.
In addition to the unfolding drama on the field, the tournament has also highlighted the ongoing efforts to modernize football in Sierra Leone. D'Alessandro’s agency has played a crucial role in establishing the first youth league in the country, providing resources and support to help elevate the standard of football.
“We are there to modernize the country on the football side,” D'Alessandro explained. “This year, we helped them to get the first advanced video camera to record all the league matches, and we are putting them on Transfermarkt so that every player can be seen by clubs around the world.”
As the tournament progresses, the focus will remain on the players, their performances, and the potential for future opportunities abroad. For now, all eyes are on the Suez Canal Stadium, where the drama of the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations continues to unfold.
