SUEZ, Egypt – South Africa’s U-20 national team, the Amajita, advanced to the final of the 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Nigeria 1-0 in a tense semi-final match at the Suez Canal Stadium on Thursday.
Tylon Smith scored the decisive goal in the 66th minute, heading in a corner from Neo Rapoo to claim his first goal of the tournament and seal South Africa’s first appearance in the final since 1997.
Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, Nigeria failed to convert, with South African goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe producing several key saves. The loss ends Nigeria’s bid for a record-extending eighth title and marks their third straight semi-final exit, following defeats at the same stage in 2023 and 2019.
