South Africa’s U20 national team, Amajita, made football history on Sunday night by securing their first-ever CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations title, defeating Morocco 1-0 in a tense and tactical final at the Cairo International Stadium.
This long-awaited triumph came 28 years after South Africa’s last appearance in the final, which also featured Morocco – and ended in defeat.
This time, however, the script was flipped as coach Raymond Mdaka’s side claimed glory in dramatic fashion.
Tight final decided by VAR
Both teams arrived in the final with impressive unbeaten runs through the knockout stages, setting the stage for a closely contested showdown.
The match was defined by disciplined defending, superb goalkeeping, and high tactical intensity.
The breakthrough came in the 70th minute, when South African goalkeeper Fletcher Smythe-Lowe launched a long pass that ignited a swift counterattack.
Shandre Campbell timed his run to perfection, delivering a pinpoint assist to Thulani Kekana, who calmly slotted the ball into the net.
Though the assistant referee initially flagged for offside, a VAR review confirmed the goal, igniting celebrations among the players, staff, and fans.
Heroics between the posts
Smythe-Lowe delivered a man-of-the-match performance, producing key saves to deny Moroccan forwards Mouad Dahak and Jones El Abdellaoui.
In the dying moments, Morocco threw everything forward, but South Africa’s backline held firm.
Morocco’s best chance to equalise came in the 83rd minute, when Othmane Maamma missed a clear opportunity in front of goal.
Moments later, Shakeel April nearly doubled South Africa’s lead, only to be denied by the Moroccan goalkeeper.
Redemption
South Africa’s journey to the title was filled with grit and resilience.
After losing their tournament opener to hosts Egypt, Amajita bounced back with wins over Tanzania and Sierra Leone, before eliminating DR Congo and Nigeria in the knockout rounds.
“This is not just a win – it’s a turning point for South African football,” said coach Mdaka.
“These young men showed character, hunger, and belief. The future is bright.”
Earlier in the evening, Nigeria beat hosts Egypt 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to secure third place.
Amajita’s message to Africa
With their victory, Amajita sent a powerful message to the continent: South Africa’s youth football has arrived.
From defensive discipline to explosive attacking moments, this generation has shown it can compete – and win – on Africa’s biggest stage.
The focus now shifts to the FIFA U20 World Cup, where South Africa will aim to carry their continental momentum to the global arena.
Is South Africa’s future bright on the African – and world – stage?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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