South Africa Crowned U-20 AFCON Champions After Narrow Victory Over Morocco
Amajita makes history with 1-0 win, claiming their first-ever U-20 African title
South Africa’s U-20 national team, affectionately known as Amajita, made history on Sunday night after defeating Morocco 1-0 in a tense and tactical final to lift their first-ever TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations trophy.
The much-anticipated final took place at the iconic 30 June Stadium in Cairo, with both teams entering the clash unbeaten. But it was South Africa who emerged triumphant, clinching the title with pride, passion, and a thunderous strike that will be remembered for generations.
Gomolemo Kekana’s Thunderbolt Seals the Deal
In a match filled with gritty midfield battles and rock-solid defending, the decisive moment came in the 70th minute. Gomolemo Kekana, showing the composure of a seasoned veteran, let fly from just outside the box. The ball curled past Morocco’s outstretched goalkeeper into the top right corner—an absolute rocket that ignited wild celebrations on the South African bench.
Referee Bakary Gassama initially waited for VAR confirmation, but when the goal was upheld, the crowd erupted. That goal not only decided the game but also etched Kekana’s name in South African football history.
Fletcher Lowe: The Guardian Between the Sticks
Goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe was a wall all night, keeping Morocco at bay with a series of incredible saves. His shot-stopping prowess earned him the Man of the Match award and helped secure his clean sheet—the third in the tournament.
With 24 saves across the competition, Lowe was not only South Africa’s last line of defence but also their most consistent performer. His cool head under pressure was crucial, particularly when Morocco mounted a late offensive in search of an equaliser.
A Long Road to Glory
South Africa’s journey to the title wasn’t smooth. A shaky start saw them lose their opening match to Egypt, but they quickly bounced back with victories against Tanzania and Sierra Leone. A gritty draw with Zambia ensured they topped their group.
In the knockout stages, they edged DR Congo in the quarter-finals and saw off Nigeria in a dramatic semi-final. With momentum on their side and belief soaring, Amajita stepped onto the Cairo turf in the final ready to write their own story—and they did.
Coach Thabo Senong: “This Title Is for South Africa”
Speaking after the final whistle, head coach Thabo Senong dedicated the win to the South African people.
“This is not just a win for these boys, it’s a win for every young dreamer in South Africa,” Senong said, visibly emotional. “We’ve faced setbacks, but this team never gave up. Their resilience, humility, and heart have taken us to the top.”
Morocco’s Brave Fight Falls Short
Morocco, one of the tournament’s strongest sides, were no easy opposition. They had dominated their group and stormed into the final with flair and confidence. However, their inability to break South Africa’s solid defensive setup proved costly.
Despite late pressure and set-piece opportunities, Morocco couldn’t find the net. Their efforts were gallant, but it simply wasn’t their night.
The Bigger Picture: Amajita Headed to FIFA U-20 World Cup
With this win, South Africa, along with Morocco, Egypt, and Nigeria, have officially qualified for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup to be hosted in Chile. The tournament is scheduled to begin in September, and South Africa will head there brimming with belief.
This U-20 AFCON victory could mark the start of a new golden generation for South African football—a generation that blends talent, grit, and continental ambition.
A Victory for the Continent
Beyond the result, this final showcased the future of African football. From the tactical maturity of the players to the roaring energy in the stands, Cairo bore witness to a spectacle that highlighted just how bright Africa’s footballing future truly is.
As the sun set over the Egyptian capital, Amajita held the trophy aloft, fireworks painting the sky, and a nation 6,000 kilometres away erupted in joy. From Soweto to Cape Town, Durban to Polokwane—this was a night to remember.
