South Africa made history by winning their first-ever CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations title, defeating Morocco 1-0 in the final.
In a repeat of the 1997 final, it was South Africa who shot ahead against Morocco.
Gomolemo Kekana’s stunning 70th-minute goal, a curling shot from outside the box, proved to be the winner.
The goal was confirmed after a VAR check, sending South Africa’s players and fans into ecstasy.
The victory marked a remarkable turnaround for South Africa, who had never lifted a continental youth trophy before and hadn’t reached the U-20 final since 1997.
Goalkeeper Fletcher Smythe-Lowe made crucial saves, including 24 throughout the tournament, while the defensive unit led by Tylon Smith and Sfiso Timba shut down Morocco’s attack.
South Africa’s journey to the title was marked by resilience and determination. After an opening loss to Egypt, they rallied to beat DR Congo, Nigeria, and Morocco, all by narrow margins. Their grit and organization paid off, earning them their first U-20 AFCON title.
In the bronze medal match, Nigeria defeated host country Egypt 4-1 in a penalty shootout after the game ended goalless.
