Football

Amajita Beat Zambia 4-2 to Qualify for 2027 U20 AFCON and Reach COSAFA Cup Final

Published 25 Sep 2026 at 9:36 PM

by Dzikamai Matara

3 min read

Amajita found themselves facing a difficult challenge in Mozambique, but their response in the second half changed the entire complexion of the match
South Africa’s U20 stars had to dig deep against Zambia, with one player stepping up when the pressure was at its highest
Amajita have now secured something important in Mozambique, but their campaign is not over yet with another major test waiting on Sunday

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Amajita are going to Ghana. South Africa’s U20 side fought back from 1-0 down to beat Zambia 4-2 and secure their place at the 2027 U20 AFCON. Image: safa.net
Source: UGC

South Africa’s U20 men have secured their place at next year’s U20 Africa Cup of Nations after fighting back from a goal down to beat Zambia 4-2 in Friday’s COSAFA semi-final in Mozambique. The victory also booked Amajita a place in Sunday’s final against the hosts.

The result means South Africa will defend their regional crown while preparing for the continental tournament in Ghana in 2027.

Steven Mendes leads Amajita comeback

SAFA reports that Zambia struck first through Duncan Musialela in the 28th minute, leaving South Africa chasing the game. Steven Mendes restored parity from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute before Oarabile Booysen put Amajita ahead two minutes later.

Mdaka explains how South Africa changed the game

Amajita coach Raymond Mdaka praised his players for recovering from the early setback.

Mdaka said:

“It’s not easy to come down from 1-0 in this kind of an intensive game and be able to score more goals, that’s a sign of being positive.”

He also explained the tactical adjustment that helped South Africa find more space in attack.

“We brought in Emile to come and play right in front of their centre backs so that space they create gives us an opportunity, and indeed it worked for us,” Mdaka said.

Amajita set sights on Ghana 2027

The qualification carries significance beyond the COSAFA competition. CAF confirmed that Ghana will host the 2027 U20 Africa Cup of Nations, with 12 nations set to compete and the top four earning places at the FIFA U20 World Cup.

SAFA president Danny Jordaan congratulated the squad and confirmed he would attend Sunday’s final.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the coach, the players and the support staff for a job well done out there in Mozambique,” Jordaan said.

Amajita will now have an opportunity to finish their qualifying campaign with another trophy before turning their attention to the continental stage.

Siviwe Magidigidi’s European journey faces uncertainty

Briefly News previously reported that Amajita striker Siviwe Magidigidi was facing an uncertain period at Belgian club Beerschot after reportedly failing to return from compassionate leave.

The young attacker had made six league appearances after moving to Belgium, but his first months in Europe proved challenging. His situation adds another layer of interest to Amajita’s current campaign as South Africa continues to develop its next generation of talent.