2025 FIFA U17 Men’s World Cup: South Africa to face Japan in Round 32

South Africa’s Amajimbos will take on Japan in the Round 32 stage of the ongoing 2025 FIFA U17 Men’s World Cup in Qatar.

The knockout stage kicks off on Friday, November 14, following the conclusion of all group matches on Tuesday.

South Africa secured their spot by finishing second in Group A and entered the draw as the 11th-seeded runner-up. Japan, meanwhile, topped Group B and were seeded 10th among the group winners, setting up an intriguing clash between two ambitious sides.

The tournament has seen strong representation from Africa, with nine teams advancing to the knockout phase.

Morocco, also from Group B, managed to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams despite heavy defeats to Japan (2-0) and Portugal (6-0). Their emphatic 16-0 victory over New Caledonia was enough to push them through.

Japan’s group stage journey was marked by unexpected twists. They were held to a goalless draw by New Caledonia but bounced back with a 2-1 win over Portugal to clinch the top spot in their group.

All nine African representatives in the Round 32 stage will be aiming to win their matches to advance to Round 16.