What it means for SA football development to have U-17 and U-20 at AFCON
Amajimbos coach Vela Khumalo has shared his thoughts on what it means for SA to have the Under-17 and U-20 at the upcoming AFCON tournaments.
This follows the progress made by SA junior national teams in qualifying for the 2025 CAF U-17 and U-20 AFCON tournaments.
The U-17 AFCON tournament will take place in Morocco between 30 March and 19 April 2025. Amajimbos are drawn in Group B alongside Burkina Faso, Cameroon, and Egypt.
Meanwhile, the U-20 AFCON will be played in Cote d’Ivoire from the 26th of April to the 18th of May 2025. Amajita are pitted in Group B with Nigeria, Egypt, and Morocco.
WHAT VELA KHUMALO SAID ABOUT U17 AND U20 REPRESENTING SA
Khumalo, who is also Kaizer Chiefs DStv Diski Challenge coach, emphasised that this is a significant milestone that demonstrates South Africa’s progress in football development.
“It’s massive for our development. It shows that South Africa is doing something right if the two aged groups [U-17 and U-20], even Bafana Bafana, are going to AFCON,” said Khumalo.
“So, this goes down to show something nice is happening in our country. We can only embrace and say big up to all the coaches who are involved and help all these boys. But it’s good for the boys because they will be seen out there, and that’s the opportunity for the stage they want to see themselves in.”
VELA KHUMALO ON AFCON PREPARATIONS
Khumalo went on to reveal that the preparations for both U-17 and U-20 are going smoothly, with help from the clubs in releasing players.
“In terms of preparations, we are sorted. I’m from the camp now [with the U-17 last week, and we spent the whole week. We are hoping to have another one starting on the 19th of March, and it will lead us to the AFCON. So, I know the U-20 are going to have theirs during the upcoming FIFA international break.
“It looks good, and the clubs are helping and responding with an understanding of helping this country to go to AFCON.”
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