Amajita head coach Raymond Mdaka has shared his insights on how his troops achieved the crucial win over Nigeria in the semi-final of the U-20 AFCON, securing a place in the final.
South Africa booked their spot in the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations final with a 1-0 semi-final victory over Nigeria on Thursday at the Suez Canal Stadium in Egypt. Tylon Smith’s decisive 66th-minute header via a Neo Rapoo corner-kick extended Amajita’s unbeaten run at the venue to four matches.
The result ended Nigeria’s hopes for a record eighth title and marked their third consecutive semi-final exit at AFCON. On the other hand, the victory also propelled Mdaka’s men to their second U-20 AFCON final, their first since finishing as runners-up in 1997.
Built on a solid defence and efficient attack, South Africa’s five-game unbeaten streak is their longest in the tournament’s history.
MDAKA CREDITS AMAJITA’S CHARACTER AND DISCIPLINE FOR NIGERIA WIN
Mdaka attributed the win to Amajita’s strong character, discipline, and adherence to tactical and technical “agreements”.
The former Marumo Gallants coach also expressed immense pride in his players’ continuous growth throughout the AFCON tournament, highlighting their development in both skill and spirit.
“Yes, another win, congratulations to the boys. What a good job, good character, very disciplined, sticking to the agreements, tactical, and technical. We really appreciate it,” said a proud Mdaka. “We have a very good bunch of players.
“Although it was not easy, our boys, I think, are growing in each and every match, growing in character and growing in everything. Thank you so much and well done, boys, and well done for the country. Congratulations to Nigeria as well, it was a good game.”
Having booked their ticket to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, Amajita will aim to avenge their 1997 AFCON final loss against Morocco when the two sides meet again on Sunday for the continental title.
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