Egypt Win but Yellow Cards Block Knockout Spot in U20 World Cup

Egypt claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory over hosts Chile on Friday night in their final Group A match at the U20 World Cup but failed to seal direct qualification for the knockout stage due to the fair play rule.

The Pharaohs entered the decisive fixture needing a win to boost their chances of progressing.

They delivered an intense and determined performance, overturning an early deficit to earn a memorable result.

Despite their effort, disciplinary points decided the final group standings, leaving Egypt third and forced to wait for a potential place in the round of 16 as one of the best third-placed teams.

Chile took the lead in the first half through Vicente Álvarez, lifting the home crowd’s hopes of an assured qualification spot.

But Egypt responded after the break with renewed energy. Omar Khedr delivered a precise corner, and Ahmed Abdin rose highest to head home the equaliser, bringing the game back to level terms.

Khedr continued to inspire his side and produced a moment of brilliance late in the match.

His perfectly executed free-kick sealed a comeback victory, sending Egyptian supporters into celebration and seemingly pushing the team towards the next round.

However, their joy turned to disappointment after the final whistle. Despite finishing level on points and goal difference with Chile, Egypt lost out on second place due to the fair play criteria, a tiebreaker based on yellow and red cards received

. The outcome echoed Japan’s controversial progression over Senegal on the same rule at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Chile secured their spot in the last 16 despite the defeat, while Egypt now face an anxious wait to see if their record as a third-placed team will be enough to extend their World Cup journey.