The South African U17 Men’s National Team, Amajimbos, is gearing up for a high-stakes clash against Zambia in the semi-finals of the 2024 COSAFA Championships and CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations Regional Qualifiers. The match is set to take place on Wednesday, 11 December 2024, at 15:00 at the AW Muller Stadium in Auckland Park.
Flawless Group Stage Performance
Amajimbos dominated Group C, winning all three matches to finish with nine points. Their semi-final opponents, Zambia, achieved the same feat in Group B, also topping the table with nine points.
In the other semi-final, Angola, who led Group A with seven points, will face Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe secured their spot as the tournament’s best runners-up, finishing second in Group B with four points and a superior goal difference over Mozambique.
Coach Khumalo Reflects on Progress
Speaking to SAFA.net, Amajimbos Head Coach Vela Khumalo highlighted the team’s strategy and readiness:
“Today we played the younger players, and they did well, scoring three goals in the first 15 minutes. However, with youngsters, concentration can be an issue, and we conceded as a result. It was important to give all our players a chance in the tournament.”
Looking ahead to the semi-final, Khumalo emphasized its importance:
“It’s a do-or-die match. The technical team has worked hard to build this squad, and now it’s up to the boys to show how badly they want to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations.”
The Road Ahead
The semi-final against Zambia will not only decide who advances to the COSAFA U17 final but also which nation secures a coveted spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
With both teams in top form and the stakes high, fans can expect a thrilling encounter between two regional powerhouses.
