U-20 AFCON Champion Tylon Smith Set for Bafana Bafana Debut at AFCON 2025

Uncapped Bafana Bafana defender Tylon Smith is determined to use the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Morocco as a valuable learning experience to grow his game.

The 20-year-old, who lifted the U-20 Afcon trophy earlier this year, has earned his first senior national team call-up ahead of the tournament. His journey has been marked by standout performances for Amajita, a move to English side Queens Park Rangers, and a key role in helping South Africa reach the knockout stages of the U-20 World Cup in Chile.

“I’m very calm. I know I’m still young and my time will come. For now, I just want to learn from the more experienced players in my position and use that to improve,” Smith said during a press conference in Pretoria on Wednesday.

Grateful for the opportunity, Smith recalled the moment he heard his name announced by coach Hugo Broos:

“I was watching live on my phone after training when the squad was revealed. Hearing my name was special. As a 20-year-old, I felt blessed. The players have welcomed me warmly. I’m close with Oswin Appollis since we both speak Afrikaans, and Ronwen Williams has also been supportive.”

Reflecting on his rapid rise, Smith admitted the move from Stellenbosch to QPR was a big step, but one that taught him resilience.

“I’ve learned to never give up. Moving abroad was massive, but I told myself to stay calm and focus on what’s expected of me. Here with Bafana, it’s the same — I want to learn from the experienced guys and use that knowledge to grow.”

Smith now looks forward to contributing to the national team at Afcon, eager to balance patience with ambition as he continues his development.