U-17 AFCON: South Africa come from behind to beat Senegal 2-1

South Africa national under-17 football team produced a spirited second-half comeback to defeat Senegal’s national under-17 football team 2-1 in their opening Group D fixture at the 2026 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday.

The thrilling contest took place at the Mohammed VI Football Academy, where both teams battled intensely for an important early advantage in the tournament.

Senegal Strike Before Half-Time

Senegal looked on course for a winning start after taking the lead shortly before the break.

Defender Cheikh Thior opened the scoring in the 44th minute following a well-worked attacking move involving Sega Mbodji.

The goal handed Senegal a narrow advantage heading into halftime as they attempted to take control of the match.

South Africa Respond With Quickfire Comeback

South Africa emerged from the interval with renewed energy and found the equaliser just three minutes into the second half.

Inganathi Simama scored in the 48th minute after being assisted by Aphelele Majola to bring the South Africans level.

The equaliser shifted momentum firmly in South Africa’s favour as they continued to attack with confidence.

Own Goal Decides The Match

The decisive moment arrived in the 55th minute when Senegal defender Cheikh Thior unfortunately diverted the ball into his own net under pressure, giving South Africa a crucial lead.

Despite Senegal’s attempts to fight back, the South Africans remained disciplined defensively and successfully protected their advantage until the final whistle.

Ghana And Algeria Still To Play

The victory gives South Africa an important early boost in the race for qualification to the knockout stage of the competition.

Meanwhile, the other Group D fixture will see Ghana national under-17 football team face Algeria national under-17 football team later tonight at 7:00 PM.