South Africa secured their first-ever youth continental football title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Morocco in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations U-20, held at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium on May 18, 2025.
Gomolemo Kekana’s brilliant second-half strike proved to be the match-winner, as the Southern Africans claimed their maiden title after overcoming Morocco in a tense contest. Kekana’s stunning right-footed effort in the 70th minute bent into the top corner, securing South Africa’s victory.
The goal, which was confirmed after a VAR review, broke the deadlock in a game dominated by tactical discipline and solid defensive performances. With the win, South Africa not only claimed the trophy but also avenged their loss to Morocco in the 1997 final, marking a significant milestone in their youth football history.
South Africa, having previously defeated Nigeria in the semi-finals, now becomes the 12th nation to lift the U-20 AFCON trophy. The victory also marked their first win against North African opposition, breaking a five-match losing streak to teams from the region.
Tactical Battle and Resilient Defence
Both teams entered the final unbeaten, with Morocco creating the better chances in the first half. Despite Morocco’s dominant attacking play, South African goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe was in inspired form, making crucial saves, including stops from Jones El Abdellaoui and Ilias Boumassaoudi.
South Africa, who had recovered after an opening-game defeat to Egypt, showed patience and resilience throughout the match. The second half saw Morocco press forward, but their efforts were thwarted by South Africa’s disciplined defensive line, led by Tylon Smith and Sfiso Timba. South Africa’s high pressing eventually bore fruit when Kekana found the net.
After the goal, South Africa absorbed Morocco’s pressure with impressive composure. Despite Morocco’s desperate attempts to equalize, South Africa held firm, and the final whistle confirmed their historic victory.
Fletcher Lowe Shines
Fletcher Lowe, who finished the tournament with the most saves (24), was instrumental in South Africa’s defensive success. His performances, alongside his team’s defensive organisation, were key to their progression to the final and eventual triumph.
Morocco’s Missed Opportunity
For Morocco, the defeat represented a missed opportunity to win a second U-20 AFCON title. Despite having an unbeaten record in 14 U-20 AFCON open play matches, the loss to South Africa was their first of the tournament. Despite their impressive performances throughout the competition, they will have to wait for their second continental crown.
South Africa’s Momentous Achievement
This victory marks a significant moment in South African football history, as they become the 12th nation to win the prestigious U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. The triumph also continues a trend of debut wins in recent years, following Senegal’s success in 2023.
Kekana’s decisive goal, South Africa’s defensive solidarity, and Lowe’s heroics in goal all contributed to this milestone achievement for the country, cementing their place in African football history.
