- South Africa ends Nigeria’s U-20 AFCON dream.
- Flying Eagles fall to late header in semi-final.
- Nigeria crashes out as South Africa advances.
South Africa’s U-20 team secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Nigeria’s Flying Eagles in a tense semi-final clash on Thursday at the Suez Canal Stadium in Egypt.
With this result, South Africa advanced to the final of the 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, while Nigeria’s dream of clinching a record eighth title was brought to an end.
Tylon Smith’s Header Seals the Game
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The decisive moment came in the 66th minute when Neo Rapoo delivered a pinpoint corner from the right.
Tylon Smith rose highest in the box and powered a firm header into the center of the net — it was his first goal of the tournament and arguably the most crucial for the Amajita.
Despite Nigeria controlling most of the second half, they struggled to find the back of the net.
South Africa’s goalkeeper, Fletcher Lowe, stood firm with a series of incredible saves, denying Nigeria’s Emmanuel Chukwu and Israel Ayuma in the final moments.
First Half: Cautious Start from Both Teams
The match began with both sides taking a cautious approach.
Although Nigeria enjoyed more possession and attacking attempts, clear scoring opportunities were very limited.
Tahir Maigana tested the South African goalkeeper early on, while Kutlwano Letlhaku’s shot at the other end was calmly handled by Nigeria’s shot-stopper.
The first half ended goalless despite Nigeria’s dominance in the attacking third.
Second Half: Nigeria’s Late Surge Not Enough
After conceding the goal, Nigeria responded immediately by making two substitutions to strengthen their attacking efforts.
Rickson Mendos and Bidemi Amole added much-needed pace and intensity, coming close to leveling the score.
Ayuma, in particular, had two notable chances, including a diving header that appeared destined for the back of the net until Lowe pulled off another brilliant save.
Also Read: U-20 AFCON: Flying Eagles Stun Senegal in Penalty Drama to Reach Semi-Finals
South Africa’s Discipline Pays Off
South Africa’s defensive organization and composed midfield play proved vital.
The Amajita managed to withstand Nigeria’s late pressure and maintained their unbeaten run at the Suez Canal Stadium, having now recorded four straight victories.
This victory marks South Africa’s first U-20 AFCON final appearance since 1997, a year in which they finished as runners-up.
Nigeria’s Semi-Final Woes Continue
For Nigeria, the loss represents a third consecutive defeat in the U-20 AFCON semi-finals.
The Flying Eagles had previously fallen to Gambia in 2023 and to Mali in 2019.
With this setback, attention will now shift to rebuilding the squad and preparing for future campaigns.
Key Takeaways
Final Score: Nigeria 0-1 South Africa
Goal Scorer: Tylon Smith (66th minute)
Man of the Match: Fletcher Lowe (Goalkeeper, South Africa)
Venue: Suez Canal Stadium, Egypt
Nigeria’s Recent U-20 AFCON Semi-Final Losses: 2019 (versus Mali), 2023 (versus Gambia), 2025 (versus South Africa)
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