South Africa edge Nigeria to reach U-20 AFCON 2025 final

South Africa’s U-20 team, the Amajita, have secured a spot in the final of the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nigeria in a tense semi-final encounter at the Suez Canal Stadium on Thursday.

A crucial header from Tylon Smith in the 66th minute, marking his first goal of the tournament, proved decisive. The forward rose highest to nod in Neo Rapoo’s well-placed corner, sending the Amajita into their first final since 1997.

The defeat dashed Nigeria’s hopes of clinching a record-extending eighth U-20 AFCON title. It also marked the Flying Eagles’ third successive semi-final exit, having previously been knocked out at the same stage by Gambia in 2023 and Mali in 2019.

Despite enjoying greater possession and creating numerous chances, especially in the second half, Nigeria were repeatedly thwarted by South African goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe. The shot-stopper made a series of remarkable saves in the final moments to deny Emmanuel Chukwu and Israel Ayuma, ensuring his team’s narrow lead remained intact.

The match began cautiously, with both sides struggling to produce clear opportunities. Early efforts from Nigeria’s Tahir Maigana and South Africa’s Kutlwano Letlhaku failed to trouble either goalkeeper, and the first half concluded goalless.

After the interval, Nigeria appeared more energetic and introduced attacking substitutes Rickson Mendos and Bidemi Amole in the 65th minute. The changes led to a flurry of chances for the Flying Eagles, with Ayuma’s diving header coming closest, only for Lowe to pull off a stunning save.

South Africa demonstrated remarkable defensive resilience and composure to withstand Nigeria’s late onslaught, holding on to remain unbeaten at the Suez Canal Stadium.

The victory secured their second-ever appearance in a U-20 AFCON final, with the team already earning qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup. The Amajita will now aim to claim their first continental title when they take to the pitch for Sunday’s final.