FIFA U-20 World Cup Recap: Amajita journey, goals and star players

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FIFA U-20 World Cup Recap: Amajita journey, goals and star players
Image - SAFA

South Africa’s U-20 national team, Amajita, delivered one of their most memorable campaigns at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025, reaching the Round of 16 for only the second time in history.

Under the guidance of head coach Raymond Mdaka, the African champions showcased grit, tactical maturity, and attacking flair, earning plaudits both at home and abroad.

Amajita

Group Stage Highlights

Drawn into Group E alongside France, New Caledonia, and the USA, Amajita began their journey with a narrow 2–1 defeat to France, where they showed promise despite the result.

They bounced back emphatically with a 5–0 demolition of New Caledonia, before sealing qualification with a historic 2–1 victory over the USA, marking their first knockout stage appearance since 2009. South Africa finished second in Group E, tied on six points with the USA but behind on goal difference.

Knockout Stage: Colombia Ends the Dream

In the Round of 16, Amajita faced a disciplined Colombian side. Despite a spirited performance and a Mfundo Vilakazi penalty that levelled the score at 1–1, South Africa eventually succumbed to a 3–1 defeat.

Colombia’s Joel Canchimbo and Neiser Villarreal proved decisive, ending Amajita’s run in Talca. Coach Mdaka praised his team’s character and growth, saying the experience would serve the players well in future competitions.

Star Players Who Shone Bright

Several Amajita players stood out during the tournament, combining flair with consistency.

Mfundo Vilakazi of Kaizer Chiefs was the creative heartbeat of the team. He registered two assists and scored a crucial penalty against Colombia. Across three appearances, he delivered six key passes and maintained a high attacking work rate, proving his composure and vision on the world stage.

Gomolemo Kekana, the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder, scored the winner against the USA and dominated midfield battles with maturity beyond his years. He completed 89% of his passes and contributed defensively and offensively in all three matches.

Fletcher Smythe-Lowe, the goalkeeper from Estoril Praia in Portugal, made six key saves across two appearances and kept one clean sheet. His command of the area and leadership from the back were vital in the win over the USA.

Siviwe Magidigidi of Siwelele was a constant threat in the final third. He scored twice in the group stage and won the penalty against Colombia with his aggressive runs. His five shots on target and relentless pressing made him one of the most dangerous forwards in the tournament.

Tylon Smith, the Queens Park Rangers defender, anchored the backline with discipline and strength. He made seven clearances and three blocks in two appearances, helping Amajita maintain defensive stability in crucial moments.

What Bafana Bafana coach said about Amajita?

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has praised South Africa’s U-20 team, Amajita, for their impressive performances at the ongoing FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, but insists it’s too early to consider them for Bafana Bafana ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in December.

Broos acknowledged the talent and potential within Raymond Mdaka’s squad, but stressed the importance of allowing the young players to gain more international experience before stepping up to the senior level.

What’s Next for Amajita?

With their World Cup journey concluded, Amajita return to South Africa having earned respect and valuable experience. Standout performers like Vilakazi, Kekana, and Smythe-Lowe may be fast-tracked into Bafana Bafana setups for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA 2026 World Cup squads, or receive call-ups for Olympic qualifiers and senior friendlies.

The team will regroup for upcoming COSAFA U-20 and AFCON U-20 cycles, aiming to defend their continental titles and build on the momentum gained in Chile. Coach Mdaka remains optimistic about the future, stating that the tournament has laid a strong foundation for the next generation of South African football.

<!-- 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.

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