The South African U20 men’s national team could not have asked for a better homecoming, as they arrived to a fitting and warm welcome as the U20 Africa Cup of Nations champions.
Amajita, as the team is fondly known, landed at the OR Tambo International Airport from Egypt on Tuesday morning.
Amajita achieved a historic feat when they reached the U20 Afcon in 28 years. They clinched their maiden trophy when they beat Morocco 1-0 during their final at the Cairo International Stadium on Sunday.
Thanks to the solitary goal from Mamelodi Sundowns, Diski Challenge midfielder Gomolemo Kekana in the second half, to guide SA to what was a historic victory.
The team, led by coach Raymond Mdaka and captain Patrick Autata, was welcomed by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, Banyana Banyana mentor Desiree Ellis, and SA Football Association President Danny Jordaan, amongst other dignitaries.
Broos, who will be leading Bafana to the Afcon in Morocco later this year, praised Mdaka for the stellar job and feat that he achieved with the young South Africans.
“First of all, I’d like to congratulate coach Raymond for the fantastic job he did in the last two, three weeks. It was nice to see,” said Broos.
“I followed every game, and I must congratulate you, coach, first for the motivation you gave that team. When you saw them playing, they were motivated; they wanted to achieve a big result.
“I say congratulations for the tactical moves you had and for the fantastic mentality that showed on the field. I think you did a very great job bringing this trophy here to South Africa.”
Amajita did not only walk away as champions but also booked their place in the U20 FIFA World Cup that will be staged in Chile in September.
