World Cup qualification was secured as South Africa’s U20 national team, Amajita, booked their spot in the semi-finals of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Monday night in Egypt. The win not only carried them into the final four of the continental tournament but also ensured their participation in the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile.
Tactical Clash Ends in Deadlock After 90 Minutes
The tightly contested quarter-final clash remained goalless after 90 minutes, with both sides battling for control in contrasting styles. DR Congo leaned heavily on their physicality and aerial prowess, while the nimble-footed South Africans relied on pace, skill, and tactical movement.
Mahlangu’s Moment of Magic
The breakthrough finally came in the 109th minute, thanks to substitute Thabang Mahlangu. The forward made an instant impact off the bench, calmly tapping in a well-placed cross from Shakeel April. The goal sent the South African bench into wild celebration, with players and coaches alike erupting in joy.
DR Congo’s Aerial Threat Contained
Throughout the game, DR Congo’s attacking duo, Jules Ahoka and Samuel Ntanda, consistently threatened with their presence in the air, looking to bully their way through Amajita’s backline. But the South Africans held firm, marshaled at the back by a composed and alert Tylon Smith in goal.
Rapoo and Autata Lead Creative Efforts
On the offensive end, Amajita’s creativity shone through the efforts of Patrick Autata and Neo Rapoo. Rapoo, in particular, found pockets of space on the edge of the box but couldn’t quite find the finishing touch with his typically reliable left foot.
Tensions Rise as Match Heats Up
As tensions rose in the second half, so did the physicality, prompting the referee to frequently reach into his pocket to issue yellow cards to both teams. The game seemed destined for a penalty shootout until Mahlangu’s decisive strike shifted the momentum irreversibly.
Defensive Discipline Seals the Win
Despite some late efforts from DR Congo to snatch an equaliser, South Africa’s defensive discipline held firm, preserving their narrow advantage until the final whistle.
Despite DR Congo throwing everything forward in the closing stages of extra time, South Africa’s defence remained organized and unyielding. Centre-backs Lebohang Mokoena and Thulani Buthelezi were rock-solid, making crucial interceptions and aerial clearances to keep the Congolese attackers at bay.
Full-backs showed great composure under pressure, while goalkeeper Tylon Smith’s confident handling and vocal leadership were instrumental in maintaining the team’s structure. It was a collective defensive effort that demonstrated maturity beyond their years and proved vital in grinding out a hard-earned clean sheet.
Eyes on the Title
With this vital win, Amajita join hosts Egypt, Nigeria, and Morocco in the semi-finals and will now set their sights on lifting the continental crown, knowing that a place at the FIFA U20 World Cup is already secured.
It was a performance defined by resilience, tactical discipline, and a moment of brilliance—one that could mark the start of a golden chapter for South Africa’s next generation of footballing talent.
U20 World Cup Awaits
With their place in the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile now secured, Amajita have proven their growth, grit, and potential on the continental stage. Their ability to remain composed under pressure and seize the moment when it mattered most speaks volumes about the character within the squad. As they prepare for the AFCON semi-finals and look ahead to the global stage, South Africa’s U20s will carry with them the belief that they belong among the best in the world.
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