World Cup (U20) 2025: 4 African gems to watch in the tournament | OneFootball

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African football will be well represented at the U20 World Cup, which will be hosted by Chile starting September 27, 2025.

In addition to the reigning AFCON champions, South Africa, Africa will also be counting on three other representatives: Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa.

Here are the four African gems to watch during the U20 World Cup:

Tylon Smith

The new Queens Park Rangers signing was one of the key architects of South Africa's triumph at the last U20 AFCON. At 20 years old, Tylon Smith developed his skills at Stellenbosch FC before making the move to England during the last summer transfer window.

Omar Khedr

The young Egyptian winger plays for English club Aston Villa, who signed him in 2024 from Zed FC for a fee of €2.76 million. Trained by Cairo giants Zamalek, he has featured in 18 matches for the U20 Pharaohs, providing three assists but is yet to find the net.

Jones El-Abdellaoui

The young Moroccan striker was one of the standout performers at the last U20 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring two goals in four matches. Developed in Norway, he joined Celta Vigo in 2025 for a handsome sum of €4.2 million.

Divine Onyemaechi

The young Nigerian winger joined Lecce during the last summer transfer window from West Brom U18. Born in England, he recently switched his sporting nationality to become eligible for the “Flying Eagles.”