The South African U-20 team, Amajita, recently made waves in Mozambique after being crowned champions of the 2024 COSAFA U-20 Championship.
Their 2-0 victory over Zambia in Matola not only secured the title but also earned them a spot in the CAF 2025 AFCON tournament alongside their final opponents.
It was a dominant run for Amajita, scoring an impressive 16 goals without conceding any throughout the tournament.
Club NXT’s Shandre Campbell, Mamelodi Sundowns’ Siyabonga Mabena, and Emile Witbooi were among the standout performers during the competition, contributing crucial goals and individual brilliance.
Campbell, in particular, bagged three goals, while Mabena added one to the team’s tally.
In addition to the team’s success, Amajita took home multiple individual honors: Fletcher Lowe won the Golden Glove, Lee Ahsene secured the Golden Boot, and Campbell was named Player of the Tournament.
Mdaka Praises Campbell, Mabena, and Witbooi’s Impact
Raymond Mdaka, Amajita’s head coach and former Marumo Gallants mentor, couldn’t hide his pride in the performances of these three players.
According to Mdaka, their contributions were especially significant given the absence of key players like Asekho Tiwani, Mfundo Vilakazi, and Langelihle Phili.
The coach highlighted how well Campbell, Mabena, and Witbooi adapted to the pressure, demonstrating maturity on the field.
Mdaka shared his insights in an interview with FARPost, where he emphasized how the coaching staff’s familiarity with these players allowed them to bring out their best.
“Fortunately, we, as the technical team, are the ones who know them. We know how good they are on the field of play,” Mdaka stated.
He also acknowledged the mental strength required in tournaments, noting that managing their mindsets was key to their success.
The Road Ahead for Amajita
With the COSAFA U-20 Championship now behind them, Mdaka and his team will turn their attention to the 2025 AFCON U-20 tournament.
This marks Amajita’s return to the continental competition after a five-year absence, and they’ll be eager to make their mark under Mdaka’s leadership.
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