FIFA U-20 World Cup: Amajita stun USA to reach last 16

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FIFA U-20 World Cup: Amajita stun USA to reach last 16

South Africa’s U-20 national team, Amajita, booked their place in the knockout stages of the FIFA U-20 World Cup with a thrilling 2–1 victory over the USA on Sunday.

Match Context

Heading into the final group fixture, Amajita knew that a win or draw could secure a top-two finish, depending on France’s result against New Caledonia. A defeat would leave them hoping to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. The USA, meanwhile, needed just a point to seal top spot in Group E.

Match Summary

The USA made a bright start, opening the scoring in the 12th minute through Noah Cobb, who finished off a well-worked move.

However, South Africa responded swiftly. Just five minutes later, a misjudged header by Joshua Wynder, intended as a clearance, deflected into his own net, leveling the score at 1-1.

The equalizer sparked Amajita into life. Mfundo Vilakazi, continuing his impressive form from the 5–0 win over New Caledonia, orchestrated a brilliant attacking move. The Kaizer Chiefs midfielder slipped a precise pass to Shakeel April, whose pinpoint cross found Gomolemo Kekana of Mamelodi Sundowns, who calmly slotted home to give South Africa a 2–1 lead before halftime.

Amajita had chances to extend their lead in the second half. Vilakazi came close with a low drive that was parried by the goalkeeper, and Siviwe Magidigidi narrowly missed the rebound.

Group Drama

In the other Group E fixture, France, who had previously lost 2–1 to the USA, thrashed New Caledonia 6–0. Despite the emphatic win, they needed a significant goal difference to ensure progression to the next round.

Amajita next match

With this result, Amajita finish second in Group E and will face the Group F winners, which could be Nigeria, Colombia, or Norway, depending on final results.

USA, as Group E winners, will face Italy in the Round of 16.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

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