South Africa pulled off a narrow but momentous 1-0 victory over Nigeria in Thursday’s semi-final clash of the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025, booking their place in the tournament’s final for the first time since 1997.
In a battle between two continental heavyweights, Tylon Smith’s towering 66th-minute header from a Neo Rapoo corner proved the difference at the Suez Canal Stadium, sending the Amajita to a historic final and leaving the Flying Eagles stunned.
Despite dominating large spells of the game — particularly in the second half — Nigeria paid the price for wasteful finishing and inspired South African defending, led by standout goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe, who denied several clear-cut chances including a late diving header from Israel Ayuma.
“We believed, we defended like warriors, and we took our chance,” said South African coach Mkhuseli Mokoena. “Now we’re 90 minutes from history.”
Nigeria, seven-time champions of the tournament, were aiming to extend their record tally but instead exited at the semi-final stage for the third consecutive edition. Their lively attack, bolstered by second-half substitutes Rickson Mendos and Bidemi Amole, couldn’t find a way past a compact South African unit.
The result marks a fifth match unbeaten for South Africa — their best-ever run at U-20 AFCON — and underscores a new era for the Amajita, who have qualified for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
For Nigeria, the loss will sting, as the dream of reclaiming continental dominance slips further out of reach. For South Africa, the dream is alive — and now just one win away from a first-ever U-20 African title.
