In the charged atmosphere of Estadio Fiscal de Talca, Chile, South Africa’s Amajita produced a performance full of courage and flair before bowing out of the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 with a 3–1 loss to Colombia in the Round of 16. The October 8 showdown marked the end of a landmark campaign for the young Bafana Bafana, who became the first South African team—senior or youth—to win two matches at a World Cup finals. Despite the heartbreak, the tournament spotlighted the explosive potential of South Africa’s youth football, led by the electrifying Relebohile Mofokeng. As the dust settles, attention now turns to the U-20 AFCON qualifiers, where a new challenge awaits.
From Dream to Drama: Amajita’s Journey to the Knockouts
Amajita’s path to the Round of 16 was a story of belief and resilience. Entering as African champions after their triumphant 2023 U-20 AFCON campaign, coach Raymond Mdaka’s men faced a daunting Group E featuring football heavyweights and rising stars alike.
The opener against France tested their mettle, ending in a narrow 1–0 defeat. But Amajita bounced back spectacularly in their second match, dismantling New Caledonia 5–0—their biggest-ever win on the global stage. Siviwe Magidigidi netted twice, with Neo Rapoo, Keegan Pietersen, and Mfundo Vilakazi adding their names to the scoresheet in a statement of attacking intent.
- 5–0 vs New Caledonia: Magidigidi (2), Rapoo, Pietersen, Vilakazi
- Record margin boosted confidence and goal difference
In their final group clash, Amajita produced a dramatic 2–1 comeback against the USA on October 6. Trailing to an early header, they equalized through a deflection before Gomolemo Kekana struck deep into stoppage time to secure passage to the knockouts. It was a milestone moment—no South African team had ever won two matches in a single World Cup tournament.
Awaiting them was Colombia, unbeaten group leaders and one of the tournament’s most consistent sides. Amajita had already exceeded expectations—but they weren’t done fighting.
Match Recap: Colombia’s Precision Edges the Contest
The Round of 16 encounter unfolded like a footballing drama. Colombia struck first in the 17th minute through Yerson Canchimbo after a rapid counterattack caught Amajita’s backline high. South Africa rallied before halftime, with Relebohile Mofokeng’s sublime cross met by Vilakazi’s header to level the scores and spark hope of a famous upset.
The second half, however, belonged to the Cafeteros. Neyser Villarreal restored Colombia’s lead in the 62nd minute and sealed the result with a second goal in the 78th. Despite late pressure and several corners, Amajita couldn’t break through Colombia’s disciplined defense. The 3–1 scoreline didn’t reflect the spirit of Mdaka’s side—but it underlined their growth on the world stage.
| Key Match Stats | South Africa | Colombia |
| Possession | 48% | 52% |
| Shots (On Target) | 9 (3) | 14 (6) |
| Goals | 1 | 3 |
| Corners | 5 | 3 |
Though eliminated, Amajita exited with pride. Their tactical evolution, work ethic, and composure against elite opponents spoke volumes about the strides being made in South African youth football.
Star Performer: Relebohile Mofokeng’s Rising Stardom
Among the standout performers, none shone brighter than Relebohile Mofokeng. The 20-year-old Orlando Pirates winger, nicknamed “Junior” for his youthful confidence and silky dribbling, has emerged as a symbol of the next generation’s promise. His World Cup tally—two assists and a goal—underscored his creative influence and maturity under pressure.
Mofokeng’s assist for Vilakazi’s goal against Colombia was pure artistry, beating two defenders before curling in a pinpoint delivery. Against the USA, his late-game vision set up Kekana’s winner. Since debuting for Pirates in 2023, Mofokeng has amassed 15 goals and 12 assists across competitions, earning comparisons to South African greats for his flair and composure.
“Relebohile is a special talent. His vision and bravery on the ball give us an edge. This World Cup showed the world what South African youth can achieve.”
— Coach Raymond Mdaka
With teammates like Magidigidi and Kekana also impressing, Amajita’s young core looks poised to shape the country’s footballing future. Mofokeng, already a senior national team prospect, leads the charge as a beacon of hope.
Next Stop: AFCON Qualifiers and Beyond
As one chapter ends, another begins. Amajita now shift focus to the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, where they will defend their continental title. The qualifiers, running through late 2025, promise fierce regional battles against Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique in the COSAFA Zone.
- Southern Zone Preview: Key fixtures expected late 2025
- Objectives: Defend AFCON title and qualify for FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027
- Players to Watch: Mofokeng, Magidigidi, and Kekana
With many of these players nearing senior national call-ups, South Africa’s youth setup looks stronger than it has in years. Their World Cup run may have ended, but their momentum is only beginning.
A Legacy Beyond Results
Amajita’s campaign has done more than earn results—it’s reignited belief in what African football can achieve on the world stage. Their tenacity, style, and spirit resonated far beyond the scorelines. As Coach Mdaka put it: “The pain today builds the strength for tomorrow.”
Colombia may move forward, but Amajita’s story continues—an inspiring testament to growth, grit, and the unbreakable heartbeat of South African football.