U20 Afcon: Champions South Africa reap big after their continental glory

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South Africa's U20 National Team, Amajiita, set history on Sunday by beating their counterparts from Morocco by a solitary goal to win the U20 Africa Cup of Nations held in Egypt.

The Mzansi youngsters beat some strong opposition like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria before eventually delivering in the last hurdle.

It explains why they dominated the Caf U20 Afcon's Best XI, with some players claiming individual rewards for their exploits.

Who was crowned?

“Newly crowned champions South Africa led the way with four players selected in the tournament’s best team, including standout goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe and playmaker Tylon Smith, who was also named the Best Player of the tournament,” Caf posted on their website.

“Lowe, who made the most saves (24) during the competition, was instrumental in keeping three clean sheets, including one in the final against Morocco.  His safe hands and calm distribution laid the foundation for South Africa’s historic first U-20 AFCON title.  

“Midfielder Tylon Smith, who was the playmaker of his team, capped off a stellar campaign by scoring the winning goal in the semi-final against Nigeria. His ability to dictate play and rally his team in pressure moments earned him the Best Player award and a key role in the tournament's Best XI,” they stated.

“Coach of the tournament honours went to South Africa’s Raymond Mdaka, whose tactical discipline and faith in youth delivered a maiden continental crown for the Amajita,” Caf added.

Full list of winners:

Best XI: Fletcher Lowe (South Africa), Neo Rapoo (South Africa), Mohamed Goweily (Egypt),  Othmane Maamma (Morocco), Daniel Bameyi (Nigeria), Lazola Maku (South Africa), Hossam Essadak (Morocco), Faycal Zahouani (Morocco), Hamza Koutoune (Morocco), Momoh Kamara (Sierra Leone) and Tylon Smith (South Africa).

Best Player – Tylon Smith – South Africa

Top Scorer: Momoh Kamara, 4 goals – Sierra Leone

Best Goalkeeper: Fletcher Lowe – South Africa

Best Coach: Raymond Mdaka – South Africa

Fair Play Award: Morocco

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

Author

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.