South Africa showcased their attacking firepower with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Sierra Leone in a TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (U-20 AFCON) Group A clash on Tuesday evening in Ismailia.
The match began with South Africa on the front foot, determined to secure an early breakthrough. Jody Ahshene opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a precise right-footed strike from outside the box, assisted by Shakeel April. Despite Sierra Leone’s attempts to fight back, South Africa’s disciplined defense kept them at bay, and the first half ended 1-0 in favor of the Amajita.
In the second half, South Africa raised their intensity. Neo Rapoo doubled the advantage in the 60th minute, finishing off a swift counterattack orchestrated by Ahshene. Sierra Leone briefly reignited hopes when Momoh Kamara scored in the 69th minute, converting a cross from Osman Kamara to make it 2-1.
However, South Africa reasserted dominance late in the match. Substitute Thabang Mahlangu delivered a superb cameo, scoring twice in quick succession — first in the 86th minute from a Rapoo assist and again in the 89th minute after a set-piece involving Patrick Autata — sealing a commanding win.
Despite the heavy defeat, Sierra Leone remain atop Group A, with South Africa now sitting second.
South Africa and Zambia climb up in Group A after today's results. 🆙#TotalEnergiesAFCONU20 pic.twitter.com/2N8erM7Rqc
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) May 6, 2025In the earlier U-20 AFCON Group A match, Zambia snatched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Tanzania, thanks to a last-minute penalty converted by Joseph Sabobo deep into stoppage time in Ismailia.
The tense, physical encounter appeared destined for a draw, with both teams locked in a tight midfield battle and few clear chances. However, Zambia’s persistence paid off when, in the 11th minute of added time, VAR awarded a penalty after Emmanuel Mutale was fouled in the box by Ismail Ally.
Sabobo stepped up and calmly slotted the penalty into the bottom left corner, sealing all three points for the Young Chipolopolo.
Tanzania had been the more threatening side for stretches of the game, forcing Zambia’s defense into action and registering several shots on target. However, they were left to rue missed chances, particularly from Jammy Simba and Cyprian Kachwele.
The match was marked by numerous stoppages for injuries and a flurry of yellow cards, reflecting its high stakes and physicality. Zambia’s triple halftime substitution ultimately shifted the momentum and proved decisive as they surged late to claim victory.
