If you love soccer but haven’t heard much about the U‑20 African Cup of Nations, you’re in the right spot. This competition showcases Africa’s best under‑20 talent, and many of today’s stars first shined here. Below you’ll find the basics, where to watch, and tips for staying on top of every match.
The next edition kicks off in July 2025 and will be hosted by Tanzania. Ten teams qualify through regional qualifiers, so you’ll see a mix of powerhouses like Nigeria and Ghana and surprise outfits fighting for a place on the podium.
Matches run three times a week, with group‑stage games at Dar es Salaam’s National Stadium and knockout rounds moving to Arusha. The schedule is tight – you get a game every few days – which makes it perfect for binge‑watching.
Most African broadcasters stream the matches live on TV, but if you’re outside the continent, look for online platforms like CAF’s official YouTube channel or regional sports apps that carry the feed. Social media is also a goldmine: follow the #U20AFCON hashtag on Twitter for real‑time updates and quick clips.
For those who prefer stats, websites such as FlashScore and Sofascore offer live commentary, line‑ups and minute‑by‑minute changes. Set up push notifications so you never miss a goal or red card.
Want to dive deeper? After each game, check out post‑match analysis on popular African sports blogs. They break down what worked, who’s attracting scouts, and which players might soon move to European clubs.
Nigeria usually comes in with a strong squad, thanks to their solid youth academy system. Ghana’s youngsters are fast and love to play an attacking game – expect plenty of goals.
Watch out for Senegal and Ivory Coast as well; both have been investing heavily in under‑20 development programs and often produce technically gifted players.
If you’re looking for a dark horse, keep an eye on Tanzania, the host nation. Home support can lift a team beyond expectations, and they’ll be eager to make a statement.
This tournament isn’t just another competition; it’s a launchpad for future stars. Many African legends – like Samuel Eto’o and Sadio Mané – first made headlines here. Scouts from Europe, Asia and the Americas monitor every match looking for the next big signing.
Beyond individual careers, the U‑20 AFCON boosts football development across the continent. It gives young coaches a chance to test tactics, and federations learn what works at grassroots level.
Whether you’re a die‑hard soccer nut or just curious about Africa’s next generation of talent, the U‑20 AFCON offers non‑stop excitement. Keep this guide handy, set your alerts, and enjoy the tournament as it unfolds.
