With their place in the 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup secured, Amajita coach Raymond Mdaka has revealed the mantra the team repeated to themselves throughout their qualification journey.
Amajita booked a spot in the semi-finals of the U-20 AFCON, defeating DR Congo 1-0 at the Suez Canal Stadium in Egypt on Monday night.
Thabang Mahlangu’s 109th-minute winner secured SA’s place as the fourth and final nation in the semi-finals, a victory that also earns Amajita a coveted FIFA U-20 World Cup ticket.
Despite a tense goalless regulation time, the match exploded in extra-time when SuperSport United striker Mahlangu tapped in a Shakeel April cross, sparking jubilant celebrations for the South African side.
MDAKA REACTS TO AMAJITA’S WORLD CUP QUALIFICATION
Mdaka explained that Amajita’s mantra against DR Congo was rooted in their focus on the primary goal, qualifying for the World Cup.
Despite admitting that the Congo tie was difficult due to the opponent’s strong plan, Mdaka stated: “We told ourselves to say we are in the tournament to win, and one of the main objectives was to qualify.”
“So we used almost everything that we thought we had, technically, tactically, physically and the character. You could say they [Congo] had a very good plan for us, but we were fortunate in the first-half not to concede, and in the second-half as well.”
The ex-Marumo Gallants coach added: “…We came back stronger, and then we were able to get the goal and protect our lead. I think it is a good show for the boys and the country, as we have qualified for the World Cup.”
Meanwhile, SAFA president Danny Jordaan congratulated Amajita, acknowledging that their hard work in Egypt had paid off.
“This is another momentous occasion, coming so soon after we qualified for the 2025 African Nations Championship [CHAN] on Sunday, and the FIFA U-17 World Cup to be held in Qatar from 3–27 November 2025,” said Jordaan.
The FIFA U-20 World Cup is set to take place in Chile from September 27th to October 19th, 2025.
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