South Africa’s Amajita Qualify for U20 World Cup and AFCON Semis

South Africa’s national U20 side, Amajita, clinched a spot in the semi-finals of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations with a nail-biting 1-0 extra-time win over the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday evening in Egypt. The result means they are also heading to the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, having secured qualification through their quarter-final success.

The match remained locked at 0-0 after 90 tense minutes, but substitute Thabang Mahlangu stepped up in the 109th minute to slot home the winner. His close-range finish from Shakeel April’s well-placed cross proved enough to separate the sides and sparked wild celebrations from the young South African team and coaching staff.

The game was a contrast in styles, with Congo using their physical advantage to try and dominate, while the more agile South Africans looked to exploit spaces with pace and movement.

Congo’s strikers Jules Ahoka and Samuel Ntanda caused problems in the air, but Amajita held firm defensively. On the other end, Patrick Autata and Neo Rapoo tried to unlock the opposition with quick feet and clever runs.

Rapoo came close with a few efforts from the edge of the box but failed to convert his chances.

As the game wore on, tempers flared and yellow cards became frequent. But Mahlangu’s introduction proved to be the turning point, as he calmly netted the winner with penalties looming.

DR Congo pushed forward in the dying moments in search of an equaliser, but South African goalkeeper Tylon Smith stood strong, marshalling his defence well.

When the final whistle blew, Amajita celebrated a hard-earned win that not only put them among the final four with Egypt, Nigeria and Morocco—but also guaranteed them a spot on the world stage in Chile next year.

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Sourced:IOL

Picture: @cafonline.com