The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and South Africa are poised to face off in the quarter-finals of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations on Monday, May 12, at the Suez Stadium in Egypt.
Kick-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM local time (7:00 PM in Kinshasa and 8:00 PM in France).
The match will be broadcast live on CAF TV, with RTNC expected to cover the game in the DRC and SABC in South Africa.
This encounter marks a significant milestone for the DRC, as they have reached the quarter-finals of the U20 Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in their history.
A victory would not only secure a place in the semi-finals but also guarantee their first-ever qualification for the FIFA U20 World Cup, set to take place in Chile later this year.
South Africa, known as the Amajita, bring a wealth of experience to the tournament, having participated in the U20 Africa Cup of Nations nine times.
Their notable achievements include a runner-up finish in 1997 and a third-place finish in 2019.
The team has also qualified for the FIFA U20 World Cup on four occasions.
In the group stage, South Africa topped Group A with seven points, securing two wins and a draw.
Their attacking prowess was evident, with players like Thabang Mahlangu (SuperSport United), Jody Ah Shene (Cape Town City), and Shakeel April (Cape Town City) contributing to the team’s six goals.
Defensively, Lazola Maku (Stellenbosch) and Tilon Smith (SuperSport United) have been standout performers.
The DRC secured their quarter-final spot by finishing among the best third-placed teams, recording one win, one draw, and one loss in the group stage.
With four goals scored and four conceded, the team has shown resilience and determination.
Under the guidance of coach Guy Bukasa, the DRC’s young squad is eager to make history.
“We have nothing to lose and everything to gain,” Bukasa said. “Our players are motivated to seize this opportunity and make our nation proud.”
The quarter-final match between South Africa and the DRC promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams vying for a spot in the semi-finals and a coveted place in the FIFA U20 World Cup.
