Amajita Shine as South Africa Clinch Historic U20 Afcon Title and Dominate Tournament Awards

South Africa’s U20 national team, Amajita, have received another major recognition following their historic triumph at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), where they lifted their first-ever continental youth title. After defying expectations to defeat tournament favourites Nigeria and Morocco in the knockout stages, the young South Africans were rewarded with a dominant presence in the official Team of the Tournament named by CAF’s Technical Study Group.

The final against Morocco, played in Egypt, showcased the determination and tactical maturity of a team many are calling Mzansi’s new golden generation. Amajita beat a Morocco side filled with top European-based talent, including players from clubs like Celta Vigo, Monaco, and Montpellier. But despite their opponents’ pedigree, the South Africans emerged victorious, marking a momentous occasion for the country’s youth football.

Four Amajita players made the Best XI of the Tournament — goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe, defenders Neo Rapoo and Lazola Maku, and midfield maestro Tylon Smith. In addition to those selections, Amajita head coach Raymond Mdaka was named Coach of the Tournament, underlining the strategic brilliance that carried the team all the way.

Fletcher Lowe, who made an impressive 24 saves and kept four clean sheets, was named the best goalkeeper of the tournament. Meanwhile, Tylon Smith earned the coveted Best Player award for his leadership, composure, and creativity in midfield. He was instrumental in dictating play and turning defence into attack throughout the tournament.

Morocco also had four players in the team — Othmane Maamma, Hossam Essadak, Hamza Koutoune, and Faycal Zahouani — reflecting their solid run to the final. Sierra Leone’s Momoh Kamara, who netted four goals during the campaign, was awarded the Golden Boot as top scorer.

This historic win for South Africa not only adds a prestigious trophy to the nation’s cabinet but also cements Amajita’s status as a rising force in African football. The title comes two years after Senegal’s maiden victory in 2023, making South Africa the latest nation to break through on the youth continental stage.

Having beaten two powerhouses — Nigeria in the semi-finals and Morocco in the final — the road to glory was anything but easy. The victory also comes as a boost to South African football, providing a strong pool of emerging talent that could soon break into the senior Bafana Bafana squad under coach Hugo Broos.

Several players are expected to attract interest from professional clubs, both locally and abroad, following their standout performances. Amajita’s next challenge will be the U20 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place in Chile this September. With momentum on their side and a team brimming with potential, South Africa’s young stars are looking to make an even bigger impact on the global stage.