Raymond Mdaka’s verdict on Campbell, Mabena and Witbooi performances at COSAFA

Amajita head coach Raymond Mdaka has weighed in on Shandre Campbell, Siyabonga Mabena, and Emile Witbooi’s performances at the just-ended COSAFA U-20 Championship held in Mozambique.

SA U-20 side were crowned the 2024 COSAFA U20 Championship winners on Saturday afternoon following a 2-0 victory over Zambia in Matola.

By virtue of reaching the tournament finals, the two nations qualified for the CAF 2025 AFCON tournament.

Mdaka’s charges won the regional tournament in style as they managed to score 16 goals throughout the competition without conceding a goal.

Club NXT’s Campbell scored three goals, while Mamelodi Sundowns’ Mabena scored one goal in the tournament.

To top it off, Amajita dominated the individual awards. Fletcher Lowe won the Golden Glove, Lee Ahsene walked away with the Golden Boot, and Campbell was named Player of the Tournament.

WHAT RAYMOND MDAKA MAKES OF SHANDRE CAMPBELL, SIYABONGA MABENA, AND EMILE WITBOOI’S DISPLAYS

The ex-Marumo Gallants mentor, Mdaka, expressed his delight with the trio’s performances at the tournament. He cited that they contributed a lot in the absence of key players such as Asekho Tiwani, Mfundo Vilakazi, and Langelihle Phili.

“Fortunately, we, as the technical team, are the ones who know them. We know how good they are on the field of play,” said Mdaka in an interview with FARPost.

“They are big boys, and they understand what is expected of them. The only thing is for us to manage them in different forms and different games.

“It’s more of mental aspects. But I think there is no challenge around that. They have contributed to the team in a way we all want.”

Amajita will now participate in the AFCON U20 tournament next year, marking their first appearance in five years under the guidance of coach Mdaka.

RELATED STORY: Raymond Mdaka guides Amajita to COSAFA Championship glory