Amajimbos head coach, Vela Khumalo, has spoken out about the monumental achievement of guiding South Africa’s Under-17 men’s national team to the FIFA U-17 World Cup knockout stage—a first in the nation’s history.
Khumalo’s charges were in Group A with the hosts Qatar, Italy, and Bolivia. This marked Amajimbos’ second participation in the FIFA U-17 World Cup. Their first appearance was in 2015 in Chile under the tutelage of coach Molefi Ntseki.
South Africa secured a win [3-1 against Bolivia], a draw [1-1 with Qatar], and a loss [3-1 to Italy] in their three group stage encounters, finishing second in Group A with four points.
With Amajimbos having reached the knockout stage, South Africa will take on Japan in the Round of 32 at the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
The Round of 32 fixture between Amajimbos and Japan will take place on Saturday, 15 November, at Aspire Zone – Pitch 3. The kick-off is scheduled for 15:30 [SA time].
‘WE’RE HEADING IN A GOOD DIRECTION’: VELA KHUMALO
Coach Khumalo mentioned that reaching the Round of 32 for the first time is a sign that South Africa is progressing positively in football development.
“We were very, very happy and excited to have reached the knockout stage. This is a confirmation that the country is heading in the right direction when it comes to development,” Khumalo told FARPost.
“I think this is evident enough for everyone to see that we are in a good space and in a good direction, football-wise.
“Look, the World Cup is something different. It doesn’t just come easily. These boys grew up together. But we understand that maybe 50% of the other boys who helped us qualify for this tournament are not here.
“However, we kept to our target and the goals we have set for ourselves, which are to go to the World Cup and progress to the knockout stage. Now that we are in the knockout stage, we told ourselves that let’s give it our best and see what’s in store for us moving forward.”
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