South Africa edge Nigeria to reach U20 AFCON final

South Africa are through to the final of the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Nigeria in Thursday’s semi-final at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia, Egypt.

In a match largely dominated by Nigeria in terms of possession and territorial advantage, it was South Africa’s sharpness in front of goal that proved decisive.

Against the flow of play, Amajita took the lead in the second half and held firm to book their place in the tournament’s showpiece final for the first time.

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— CAF – FR (@caf_online_FR) May 15, 2025

Central defender Tylon Smith emerged as the unexpected hero, rising to meet a well-delivered cross from the right flank in the 66th minute.

His header, placed beyond the reach of the Nigerian goalkeeper at the far post, stood as the only goal of the encounter.

Despite South Africa’s limited attacking ventures, their defensive resilience and clinical execution ensured the scoreline remained unchanged.

Nigeria, on the other hand, will rue a series of missed opportunities that could have altered the course of the match.

The West Africans intensified their pressure in the final quarter of the game, desperately seeking an equaliser.

Substitute Bidemi Amole came close with a powerful shot in the 81st minute, only to be denied by an excellent save from goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe.

Minutes later, a dangerous header from close range, following a cross from the left, was again thwarted by Lowe, who produced a match-defining performance.

Throughout the game, Nigeria showed composure and control in midfield but lacked the cutting edge in the final third to convert their dominance into goals.

South Africa, in contrast, demonstrated tactical discipline and seized their moment when it came.

The result means South Africa await the winner of the other semi-final clash between hosts Egypt and Morocco, which is set to take place later in the evening.

The final promises to be a historic opportunity for Amajita, who will aim to clinch their first continental title at this level.

Nigeria, meanwhile, will look to salvage some pride in the third-place playoff, where they will face the loser of the second semi-final.

Though the Super Eagles’ U20 side showed promise throughout the tournament, their inability to capitalise on key chances proved costly on the day.