African champions, South Africa (SA) have advanced to the knockout stage of the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup with a 2-1 defeat of the United States (US) in their deciding Group E match at Estadio El Teniete on Sunday. US scored twice the opener through Noah Cobb and the other an own goal from Joshua Wynder, while Gomolemo Kekana netted the winner to see SA finish second in the pool, tied on six points with the US in first spot and France behind them from three matches.
SA came into the match needing to win, draw or not lose by more than six goals to progress as one of the best third placed sides. Coach Raymond Mdaka made one change from the side that started in the 5-0 victory over New Caledonia as Thato Sibiya replaced Langlihle Phili. The win see Amajita secure second spot in the group, with US remaining in first as they top the head-to-head mini table between themselves, SAand France after beating the latter 3-0.
–ChannelAfrica–
