U-20 World Cup: South Africa advance with “smash and grab” victory over USA

South Africa took their opportunities in Sunday’s 2-1 victory over the United States to finish Group E play at the 2025 U-20 World Cup in Chile.

Amajita were second best throughout the match but opportunistic finishing as well as strong defending and goalkeeping preserved a 2-1 halftime advantage. South Africa finish as runners-up to the USA in the group following the result.

The United States got off on the front foot from the beginning and it appeared that Amajita were in for a long day when Matthew Corcoran’s free kick service was redirected in off the hip of Noah Cobb. However, a swift response revived the African U-20 champions when Thato Sibiya got to a long ball down the left wing and his cross went in off USA defender Joshua Wynder.

American frustrations were compounded just before halftime when Amajita exploited the flanks again. Shakeel April was played in down the right wing and he cut the ball back for Gomolemo Kekana to finish with a first-time shot past USA goalkeeper Adam Beaudry.

South Africa continued be dominated in possession but remained dangerous on the counter, and improved with their ability to neutralize a stagnant American attack. Goalkeeper Fletcher Smythe-Lowe made a couple of important saves and looked confident on aerial balls while defender Tylon Smith put in a standout effort to secure the victory.

Amajita will face the Group F winners in the Round of 16 on Wednesday, which could see them face Colombia, Norway or Nigeria depending on results later on Sunday.