South Africa’s U20, Amajita, side secured a historic place in the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations final with a gritty 1-0 victory over Nigeria at the Suez Canal Stadium on Thursday.
Smith’s Header Proves Decisive
Tylon Smith’s 66th-minute header proved the difference in a tense semi-final clash, sending the Amajita to their first continental final since 1997 and shattering Nigeria’s dreams of an eighth U20 AFCON crown.
The match stats tell the story of a classic smash-and-grab performance. Nigeria dominated possession (58%) and fired 14 shots to South Africa’s 7, but couldn’t find a way past an inspired Fletcher Lowe in the Amajita goal.
Defensive Masterclass
South Africa’s defensive record at the tournament has been remarkable, with Thursday’s clean sheet their fourth in five matches. They’ve conceded just once en route to the final, demonstrating the rock-solid foundation upon which their campaign has been built.
“We knew Nigeria would come at us with everything,” said South Africa coach Thabo Senong. “Our game plan was simple – stay compact, absorb pressure and strike when the opportunity came. Smith took his chance brilliantly.”
Flying Eagles Grounded Again
For Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, this marks their third consecutive semi-final exit, following defeats to Gambia (2023) and Mali (2019). Despite creating several late chances, with Emmanuel Chukwu and Israel Ayuma both denied by spectacular Lowe saves, they couldn’t find the equaliser their second-half pressure perhaps deserved.
Match-Winning Moment
The decisive moment came from a set-piece, with Neo Rapoo’s pinpoint corner finding Smith unmarked. The forward’s powerful header gave Nigerian goalkeeper Bankole Idowu no chance, sparking wild celebrations among the South African contingent.
History Beckons for Amajita
South Africa’s remarkable run now stretches to five matches unbeaten, their longest such streak in U20 AFCON history. With World Cup qualification already secured, they’ll face the winners of the second semi-final in Sunday’s showpiece final, aiming to lift the trophy for the first time.
For Amajita captain Thabang Modise, the victory represents a watershed moment: “This team has shown incredible character. We’ve been written off many times, but we keep proving people wrong. One more step to go.”
