South Africa has won the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, soccer title with a commanding win over Morocco in the final.
The historic showdown took place at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium on Sunday night, where the young Bafana Bafana displayed composure, discipline, and flair to outclass the Atlas Cubs in front of a lively crowd.
South Africa took control early in the game with a powerful strike from captain Thabo Mokoena in the 15th minute, finishing off a well-worked team move. Morocco responded with intensity, but goalkeeper Keenan Petersen produced several key saves to preserve South Africa’s lead.
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The second half saw South Africa double their advantage through winger Kabelo Dlamini, who capitalised on a defensive error to fire home in the 68th minute. Despite a late rally by Morocco, including a disallowed goal for offside, the South Africans held firm to complete a 2-0 victory.
The win marks a major milestone for South African youth football, as this is the nation’s first title at the U-20 level. The victory also secured qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, alongside fellow semi-finalists Nigeria, Morocco, and Egypt.
Coach Mandla Dube praised his team’s performance, calling the victory “a dream come true” and a signal of “a new generation of talent ready to carry South African football forward.”
NAN
