Amajita Make History: South Africa U20 Crowned AFCON Champions for the First Time

South Africa’s U20 national team, Amajita, has made history by clinching their first-ever U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title. They defeated Morocco 1–0 in a tense final at the Cairo International Stadium on Sunday night.

This triumph comes 28 years after their only previous final appearance in 1997. In that year, Shakes Mashaba’s side narrowly lost 1–0 to Morocco. Now, under the guidance of Raymond Mdaka, Amajita have completed a remarkable journey. They lifted the continent’s most prestigious youth football trophy.

A Journey of Grit and Growth

South Africa’s campaign was far from smooth sailing. They kicked off with a narrow defeat to hosts Egypt. However, that loss appeared to galvanize the squad. Wins over Tanzania and Sierra Leone followed, while a solid draw with Zambia was enough to top Group A. They then battled through tough knockout ties. They edged DR Congo in extra time and outlasted Nigeria in the quarterfinals, both by single-goal margins.

Morocco also impressed en route to the final, dispatching Kenya and Tunisia before drawing with Nigeria in the group stage. Their run included tight wins over Sierra Leone and Egypt, setting up a fittingly competitive finale.

A Cagey, Physical Final

The final began with early promise for Amajita. A loose back-pass gave Jody Ah Shene a golden chance inside three minutes. However, Moroccan goalkeeper Yanis Benchaouch rushed out to block the attempt. Both sides carved out decent chances. South African keeper Fletcher Smythe-Lowe showed superb reflexes to deny Ilias Boumassaoudi and Mouad Dahak in the first half.

Despite Morocco’s aggressive approach and a few questionable tackles that went unpunished, Amajita held firm. The North Africans had the upper hand in terms of possession and opportunities. However, the South Africans matched them in determination, defensive organisation, and sheer desire.

Kekana’s Moment of Magic

The decisive moment came in the 70th minute. Morocco had pushed bodies forward, and goalkeeper Smythe-Lowe spotted the gap. His long ball was perfectly timed, finding Shandre Campbell in space. Campbell surged forward and teed up Gomolemo Kekana, who fired home a sublime strike from the edge of the box.

Initially flagged offside, the goal was ruled legitimate after a lengthy VAR review. It showed that Kekana had been kept on by a Moroccan defender. This breakthrough sparked wild celebrations. It gave Amajita something to protect in the closing minutes.

Holding on for Glory

Morocco threw everything forward in the final stages. Substitute Thabang Mahlangu came close to doubling the lead, while Morocco’s Othmane Maamma squandered a clear header with just minutes left.

Shakeel April also had a late chance for Amajita, but the decisive goal would remain Kekana’s. The final whistle sparked joyous scenes, as South Africa were crowned U20 AFCON champions for the very first time.

Heroes of the Nation

Standout performances came from across the park — none more so than goalkeeper Smythe-Lowe, who was named Man of the Match. He also won the tournament’s Golden Glove. His composure, agility, and shot-stopping were vital to South Africa’s success.

Mdaka’s tactical nous, solid defensive structure, and ability to inspire belief in his young squad were just as crucial. Despite not being considered among the tournament favourites, his team grew in confidence and showed maturity beyond their years.

Also read: Amajita Jet Off to U20 AFCON in Egypt

This historic win not only avenges the heartbreak of 1997 but also signals the arrival of a promising new generation. With players like Kekana, April, Mahlangu, and Smythe-Lowe shining on the continental stage, the future of South African football looks bright. Amajita’s triumph in Egypt will be remembered as one of the country’s proudest footballing moments.