Amajita have defeated Morocco to lift the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations trophy, a sweet victory coming 28 years after their loss to the same opponent in the 1997 final.
Gomolemo Kekana’s second-half strike in Sunday night’s final at the June 30 Stadium in Cairo proved the difference in a tense final. The stunning goal secured a historic 1-0 victory that saw South Africa overcome North African opposition in the tournament for the first time.
Led by former Marumo Gallants coach Raymond Mdaka, the class of 2025 navigated a challenging journey to reach this pinnacle. After an initial setback against Egypt, the team rallied with crucial results against Zambia, Sierra Leone, and DR Congo. Tylon Smith’s semi-final winner against Nigeria booked their second-ever final berth, setting the stage for the long-awaited rematch.
Both finalists entered the match unbeaten and boasting formidable defences, setting the stage for a tense and tactically astute encounter.
AMAJITA BEAT MOROCCO TO WIN FIRST AFCON TITLE
While Morocco displayed fluidity and created opportunities in the first-half, South African goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe was in inspired form, denying Jones El Abdellaoui and Ilias Boumassaoudi. South Africa, demonstrating resilience, grew into the game, with Shakeel April and Mfundo Vilakazi having glimpses of goal.
The second-half saw Morocco push forward, but their finishing proved wasteful. South Africa’s persistent high pressing eventually paid off with Kekana’s moment of brilliance. Following the goal, South Africa displayed commendable defensive discipline, with Tylon Smith and Sfiso Timba leading a resolute backline that repelled Morocco’s late attempts to equalise.
South Africa’s maiden youth continental triumph follows Senegal’s victory in 2023 and breaks their long-standing jinx against North African sides.
Lowe’s outstanding performance throughout the tournament, culminating in the most saves, underscored South Africa’s defensive resilience. He walked away with the Man of the Match award for his efforts in the final.
Lowe also took home the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award, while Smith, the commanding centre-back who anchored Amajita’s defence, was named Player of the Tournament.
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