Mdaka hails South Africa U-20 character after Afcon qualification

South Africa U-20 coach Raymond Mdaka praised his side’s resilience after Amajita recovered from a goal down to beat Zambia 4-2 and secure qualification for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana.

The victory in the Cosafa U-20 Championship semi-final also booked South Africa’s place in Sunday’s final against hosts Mozambique at ABB Stadium.

Amajita trailed at half-time after Duncan Musialela headed Zambia in front after 28 minutes. Steven Mendes levelled from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute, scoring his fourth goal of the tournament.

South Africa moved ahead for the first time two minutes later when Oarabile Booysen found the net, but Zambia responded through Jonathan Kalimina.

Mendes restored Amajita’s advantage with his second penalty of the match after Kalimina handled the ball inside the area. South Africa then sealed the win in stoppage time when Emile Witbooi completed a solo run from midfield with a composed finish for his first goal of the tournament.

Mdaka said he had challenged his players to respond at the interval, warning them of the consequences of failing to defend their title and qualify for the Afcon tournament.

“I told the boys at halftime that it is going to be bad if we don’t go out there and defend the trophy and fail to qualify for Afcon,” said Mdaka.

“I asked them to put more numbers and increase speed in the final third because their defenders were just sitting there and waiting for us.

“We brought Emile to play in front of their centre backs, and that move worked for us. I appreciate the character that was shown by the boys.

“It was not easy to come back from 1-0 down in this sort of intensive match and score more goals. That is the sign of being positive, and I am happy with the way they handled themselves.”

South Africa will travel to Ghana as defending champions and are expected to be among the favourites, with Mdaka having put together a strong squad that includes players who are active for their clubs.

“The key for us was to qualify for Afcon, and that mission has been achieved. Zambia has a strong team, and we knew it was going to be difficult, but credit to the boys for showing character.”