South Africa’s U-20 national team clinched a dramatic 2–1 victory over the United States in Rancagua on Sunday, sealing their place in the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 knockout rounds for the first time since 2009.
Despite falling behind early to a 12th-minute header from Noah Cobb off a pinpoint Matthew Corcoran free-kick, Amajita rallied with grit and unity to overturn the deficit and write a new chapter in their tournament history.
The South African came five minutes later after Siviwe Magidigidi’s pressure forced Joshua Wynder into an own goal to level the score.
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Raymond Mdaka’s side then took control of the tie and were rewarded just before half-time when Shakeel April’s cut-back found Gomolemo Kekana unmarked, who slotted home to complete the comeback.
The African youth champions almost extended their lead after the break, but USA goalkeeper Adam Beaudry produced superb saves to deny Kekana’s long-range effort and Mfundo Vilakazi late on.
Despite the loss, the Americans still advanced as Group E winners, while South Africa finished second on goal difference.
“It was a performance full of heart and character,” said South Africa coach Raymond Mdaka.
“We showed good tactical awareness and played with belief. The boys wanted this result, and they earned it. We must now prepare for the next challenge with the same hunger.”
South Africa’s victory sends them into the last 16 for the first time since Egypt 2009, where they are set to face the winners of Group F.