Egypt U-20s fell to their second consecutive defeat at the FIFA U-20 World Cup after losing 2-1 to New Zealand on Tuesday.
The Young Pharaohs’ struggles in the U-20 FIFA World Cup have deepened, as their chances of qualification took another hit in their second match.
Egypt initially took the lead with a powerful strike from Ahmed Khaled Kabaka in the 5th minute. However, New Zealand quickly equalized, with Luke Smith scoring in the 13th minute, followed by Luke Juan adding a second goal just three minutes later.
Despite several attempts in the second half, including a header from Moataz Mohamed and a threatening run by Omar Khedr, Egypt failed to find an equalizer. Goalkeeper Ahmed Wahba made crucial saves to keep his team in the game, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the loss.
This result leaves Egypt at the bottom of Group C with zero points after two matches, having also lost their opening game 2-0 to Japan. New Zealand, who lost to Chile in their first match, now has three points, level with Chile and Japan.
Group C Standings:
- Chile – 3 points (1 match, Goal Difference +1)
- Japan – 3 points (1 match, Goal Difference +2)
- New Zealand – 3 points (2 matches, Goal Difference 0)
- Egypt – 0 points (2 matches, Goal Difference -3)
Egypt’s chances of reaching the round of 16 are now slim. The 24-team tournament allows the top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed sides, to qualify. Egypt’s final group match against Chile will be crucial for their slim hopes of advancing.