Egypt U20 vs Tunisia U20 - Africa Cup of Nations U20

The Africa Cup of Nations U20 returns to the home ground on September 30, 2026, where Egypt U20 and Tunisia U20 will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

There is plenty riding on this Africa Cup of Nations U20 encounter for Egypt U20 and Tunisia U20 alike, and neither will want to leave the home ground empty-handed. Egypt U20 will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Fulham are starting to do some business now that Alvaro Arbeloa's feet are under the table as new head coach.

Wing play is likely to be central to the contest. Egypt U20 will look to stretch the pitch and isolate their wide attackers, while Tunisia U20 must find a way to compress the space and choke the supply lines. It isn't clear yet that this will definitely be a winger, with Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana flexible over their attack.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Arsenal have signed midfielder Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle in a £75m transfer.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.