Chiefs duo inspire South Africa to winning COSAFA U20 Championship start

South Africa began their COSAFA U20 Championship campaign with a 3-0 victory over Lesotho on Saturday afternoon, with a brace from Mendez and a goal from his Chiefs team-mate Tebogo Mlangeni securing all three points.

The result gives Amajita an early boost in their bid to finish top of Group A. Only the group winners and the best runners-up will reach the semi-finals, while those teams will also secure qualification for the FIFA U20 Men’s World Cup.

Raymond Mdaka’s side controlled much of the first half but struggled to create clear chances around the 18-yard area. Their pressure finally produced an opening goal on the stroke of half-time, when Mendez found the back of the net.

South Africa were without Cape Town City teenager Emile Witbooi, while Mdaka also did not have Cayden Fortune available for the match. Steven Mendes and Oarabile Booysen started in attack, with Lazola Maku named captain.

Mdaka made one change at the interval, replacing Kamohelo Mareletse with Will Henson as South Africa looked to build on their advantage.

The hosts continued to dominate after the restart and doubled their lead shortly before the hour mark. Mendez completed his brace before Mlangeni added a third goal a few minutes later to put the result beyond doubt.

SAFA have confirmed that Witbooi and Fortune will join the squad on Sunday.

South Africa will return to action against Angola on Monday afternoon, before completing their Group A fixtures against Eswatini on 23 September.

COSAFA U20 Championship fixtures

South Africa v Angola – 21 September

South Africa v Eswatini – 23 September