U20 World Cup: A look back at the three tournaments hosted by Africa | OneFootball

A recap of the three U20 World Cups held on African soil

Ghana@ghanasoccernet

The 24th edition of the U20 World Cup will take place in Chile from September 27 to October 19, 2025. Africa will be represented by four nations: Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria.

In the past, the African continent has hosted the tournament three times, specifically in the 1977, 1999, and 2009 editions.

Tunisia 1977

The North African country had the honor of organizing the inaugural edition of the U20 World Cup. Sixteen nations took part in the tournament, including Tunisia, Côte d'Ivoire, and Morocco, all of whom were eliminated in the group stage.

The Soviet Union (former USSR) claimed the ultimate prize with a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Mexico, winning 9-8 after the match ended in a 2-2 draw.

Nigeria 1999

The Federal Republic hosted the 12th edition, which featured 24 participating nations. Besides Nigeria, Africa was represented by Cameroon, Ghana, Mali, and Zambia.

In the tournament final, Spain dominated Japan with a 4-0 victory.

Egypt 2009

The North African nation organized the 17th edition. Twenty-four teams took part, including five African sides: Egypt (the host), Ghana, Cameroon, South Africa, and Nigeria.

After an outstanding campaign, Ghana clinched the title. In the final, they prevailed over Brazil in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 4-3 after a goalless draw.