U-20 World Cup: Late concession sees South Africa fall to France

South Africa’s Amajita fell to defeat in a tight match to begin their 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign with Monday’s 1-2 defeat to France in Chile.

Lucas Michal’s 80th minute strike was the difference after South Africa failed to take advantage of a couple of clear cut opportunities in the second half. The African U-20 champions spent long periods in a defensive shell but timely pressing and threatening counter-attacks allowed Amajita to cause real moments of danger for the French side.

After a dominant start, France took the lead through Anthony Bermont’s excellent strike from distance in the 25th minute.

However, an inspired South Africa side responded with a spell of excellent play that was rewarded when VAR awarded a penalty kick after Mamelodi Sundowns starlet Kutlwano Lethlaku was tripped up just inside the penalty area, allowing Jody Ah Shene to equalize from the spot.

France proceeded to regain control of the match after halftime but South Africa remained dangerous in spurts. However, Amajita were not opportunistic enough with Shakeel April failing to put his shot on frame after an excellent chance arrived.

The European favorites then pounced when a defensive letdown from Amajita allowed Michal to cut inside from the left wing with plenty of space to fire past South Africa goalkeeper Fletcher Smyth-Lowe.

South Africa will be eager to bounce back against New Caledonia in their next Group E match on Thursday, a match they are widely expected to dominate against the group minnows. African representatives end the first round of matches with a tally of one win (Morocco’s upset of Spain) along with three defeats.