South Africa’s U20 men’s national team, known as Amajita, is set to embark on their campaign at the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt, scheduled from 27 April to 18 May 2025. Head coach Raymond Mdaka has announced the final 21-player squad, addressing recent injury concerns and club-related withdrawals.
Notably absent from the lineup is Siyabonga Mabena, sidelined due to injury. Additionally, Shandre Campbell will not participate as his club, Club Brugge, has retained him for first-team commitments during their championship run.
Despite these challenges, Mdaka expressed confidence in the squad’s composition. The team includes key players like Mbekezeli Mbokazi and newcomers such as Mfundo Vilakazi, Asekho Tiwane, Langelihle Phili, and Siviwe Nkwali, who were not part of the previous COSAFA tournament in Mozambique.
“This list consists of the core of the team, the players we have had since the start of our preparations and through to COSAFA,” Mdaka stated. “We also have players we did not have in Mozambique.”
The squad entered a training camp in Johannesburg on 20 April 2025 to finalize preparations. The top four teams in the AFCON tournament will secure qualification for the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, adding significant stakes to the competition.
Amajita will aim to improve upon their previous performances and secure a spot on the global stage, showcasing the depth and talent of South Africa’s youth football system.
