Amajita Stun USA to Reach U20 World Cup Knockouts

Rancagua, Chile – 6 October 2025

South Africa’s U20 men’s national team, the Amajita, produced one of their most spirited performances in recent history, defeating one of the tournament favourites the United States 2–1 in Rancagua on Sunday night to book their place in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U20 World Cup.

The result sees South Africa finish second in Group E with six points—level with the USA and France—but with a superior goal difference (+5) over France (+4). The USA still topped the group on +10. All three nations advance to the knockout stages, but it was South Africa’s discipline, resilience, and efficiency that stole the spotlight on the final day of the group stage.

A Daring Start and Quick Recovery

The Americans drew first blood in the 12th minute when Noah Cobb rose highest to nod home from a Matthew Corcoran free kick, giving the USA a 1–0 lead and early control. But the Amajita refused to be intimidated.

Just five minutes later, Neo Rapoo’s cross from the left caused chaos in the box, forcing an own goal from defender Joshua Wynder to level matters. The goal visibly lifted South Africa’s intensity, and their defensive shape began frustrating the Americans’ rhythm.

As the first half drew to a close, South Africa delivered a stunning counterpunch. A long ball from Shakeel April found Gomolemo Kekana, who finished calmly in added time (45+2’) to hand South Africa a 2–1 lead at the break — a dramatic turnaround that silenced the heavily American crowd in El Teniente Stadium.

Resilience and Game Management

The second half saw wave after wave of U.S. pressure, but South Africa’s backline, marshalled superbly by captain Asekho Tiwani and goalkeeper Fletcher Smythe-Lowe, stood firm.
Mdaka’s side absorbed relentless attacks and relied on structured defending and sharp counterattacks to frustrate their opponents.

In the closing stages, substitutions by coach Raymond Mdaka — including Luke Baartman, Thabang Mahlangu, and Sifiso Timba — helped slow the tempo and see out the final minutes with composure. The referee’s whistle after five minutes of added time sparked jubilant celebrations, as South Africa claimed a historic win to progress to the knockouts for the first time since 2019.

Mdaka’s Tactical Discipline Pays Off

Mdaka’s men, who came into the game knowing only victory would guarantee advancement, executed their plan with remarkable maturity.
Despite having far less possession and just seven shots on target compared to the Americans’ 17, Amajita made every chance count. Their transition play and defensive coordination proved decisive in unsettling a U.S. side that had scored 12 goals in its previous two matches.

Group E Final Standings

Team	P	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Pts
USA	3	2	0	1	12	2	+10	6
South Africa	3	2	0	1	8	3	+5	6
France	3	2	0	1	8	4	+4	6
New Caledonia	3	0	0	3	1	20	-19	0

Next Challenge: Colombia Await

The victory sets up a mouthwatering Round of 16 clash against Colombia on Wednesday. Colombia topped Group F and come into the encounter unbeaten. Amajita, however, will draw confidence from their recent performances — bouncing back from an opening loss to France with emphatic wins over New Caledonia (5–0) and now the United States.

Should South Africa advance, they will face the winner of Spain vs Ukraine in the quarter-finals.

Voices from the Camp

Head coach Raymond Mdaka praised his side’s discipline and growth:

“We knew the USA would come at us, but the boys stayed calm and played with heart. This team has shown that belief, structure, and togetherness can carry us through big moments.”

Captain Asekho Tiwani echoed his coach’s sentiments, saying:

“We fought for every ball. To beat one of the strongest teams in the world shows what South Africa is capable of. We’re not done yet.”