FIFA U-20 World Cup: Colombia splits Amajita and Nigeria in Round of 16

South Africa have made history at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025™, storming into the Round of 16 for the first time since Egypt 2009.

Their dramatic 2-1 victory over group leaders USA not only secured second place in Group E but also set up a tantalizing last-16 showdown with Colombia.

The Amajita fell behind early to a Noah Cobb header but responded with resilience and flair. A pressured own goal from Joshua Wynder brought them level before Gomolemo Kekana swept home the winner in first-half stoppage time. South Africa’s two group-stage wins mark a new national record at this level.

Colombia Await After Topping Group F

Colombia, unbeaten in their group, qualified as Group F winners following a tense 1-1 draw with Nigeria. Kener Gonzalez’s sharp finish gave Los Cafeteros the lead, but a late Daniel Bameyi penalty ensured Nigeria snatched a crucial point. That result allowed the Flying Eagles to advance as one of the best third-placed teams and crucially, avoid a clash with South Africa.

Nigeria’s Draw Alters Knockout Landscape

Nigeria’s draw with Colombia had ripple effects across the bracket. By finishing third, they sidestepped a meeting with the Amajita and instead face familiar foes Australia, the team they eliminated in the same stage two years ago.

France and Norway Also Progress

France confirmed their passage to the knockouts with a commanding win over New Caledonia, powered by Andrea Le Borgne’s hat-trick. The French finish among the best third-placed teams and will face either Argentina or Japan next.

Meanwhile, Norway were held 1-1 by Saudi Arabia but did enough to finish second in their group and move on to the last 16.