Angola secures semi-final spot as South Africa dominates in COSAFA U20 Cup 2024
Angola has advanced to the semi-finals of the COSAFA U20 Cup 2024 after a narrow victory over the Comoros, while South Africa maintained their dominant form with another commanding win in Group C.
In Group B, Angola continued their strong start to the tournament, building on their opening win against Zambia.
Sunday’s match saw them edge past the Comoros with a 1-0 victory, thanks to a late strike from Filipe Quissequel in the 89th minute.
This result, combined with their earlier 3-1 triumph over Zambia, ensures Angola tops the group with six points, securing their place in the semi-finals.
South Africa, meanwhile, extended their perfect run in Group C, following up their 5-0 demolition of Malawi with a 6-0 thrashing of Lesotho.
The Amajita were in scintillating form, with Josh Ahshene opening the scoring in the 17th minute before Shandre Campbell doubled their lead in the 25th.
Lesotho’s woes continued with an own goal from Leluma Mofoka in the 42nd minute, giving South Africa a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime.
In the second half, South Africa piled on the pressure, with Kutlwano Letlhaku adding a fourth in the 50th minute, followed by goals from Sfiso Timba in the 56th and Campbell again in the 75th to complete the rout.
With this win, South Africa now boasts an impressive 11 goals in just two matches, while keeping their defense airtight with zero goals conceded.
Although South Africa remains at the top of Group C with six points, they still need to secure their semi-final spot officially, as the final round of group-stage matches could determine their fate.
They will face off against their remaining opponent in the next round, looking to confirm their place in the last four.
Elsewhere in Group C, the battle for second place heats up between Comoros and Malawi.
Both teams are tied with three points after Malawi’s 2-1 win over the Comorians on Sunday.
This sets up a dramatic final matchday as the two teams vie for a chance to progress further in the competition.
With Angola already through to the semi-finals and South Africa on the verge of securing their spot, the next round of matches promises high-stakes drama as the remaining teams fight for their place in the tournament’s final stages.
