How South Africa Defeated Morocco to Be Crowned U-20 AFCON Champions
South Africa won their first-ever CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations title after beating Morocco 1-0 in a tense final on Sunday night at the Cairo International Stadium.
The match was decided by a stunning second-half goal from Gomolemo Kekana, who struck from outside the box in the 70th minute. His powerful right-footed shot flew into the top corner and was confirmed after a VAR review.
It was a hard-fought game filled with tactical battles and strong defending from both sides. This win is historic for South Africa as it is the first time they have defeated a North African team in this tournament.
A Long-Awaited Victory
South Africa had never reached the U-20 AFCON final since 1997, when they lost to Morocco. This time, they turned the tables and lifted the trophy, becoming the 12th different country to win the competition.
Both teams came into the final unbeaten. Morocco looked better in the first half, with chances from Jones El Abdellaouiand Ilias Boumassaoudi, but South African goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe made several important saves.
South Africa started slowly in the tournament, losing their first game to Egypt. But they grew stronger with each match, showing great patience and determination. In the second half of the final, Morocco pushed hard, with Othmane Maamma and Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal coming close to scoring.
However, Morocco were wasteful in front of goal, and South Africa’s pressing eventually paid off. After Kekana’s wonder goal, South Africa defended well and stayed calm under pressure. Tylon Smith and Sfiso Timba were solid at the back, helping to secure the win.
A Tournament to Remember
This victory gives South Africa their first continental title at youth level, and it ends a poor run against North African teams, who had beaten them by a single goal in five previous AFCON meetings.
Fletcher Lowe finished the tournament with the most saves (24), proving how vital he was in South Africa’s strong defensive display.
South Africa scored only nine goals in the tournament, but each one was important as they beat DR Congo, Nigeria, and Morocco in the knockout stages.
For Morocco, it was a disappointing end. They came into the final unbeaten in 14 U-20 AFCON games, hoping to win their second title. But despite a strong tournament, their wait continues.
