Flying Eagles fall to South Africa in U-20 AFCON semi-final

South Africa’s U-20 national team edged Nigeria 1-0 in a tightly contested semi-final at the Suez Canal Stadium on Thursday, securing their place in the final of the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.

A 66th-minute header from Tylon Smith proved the difference in a clash between two of the continent’s most storied youth sides. The result ended Nigeria’s hopes of clinching an unprecedented eighth U-20 AFCON title and marked the Flying Eagles’ third straight semi-final exit in the competition.

The first half was largely balanced, with both teams cautious in possession. Nigeria’s Tahir Maigana and South Africa’s Kutlwano Letlhaku had early attempts on goal, but neither side could break the deadlock before the interval despite Nigeria enjoying more possession and attacking opportunities.

The breakthrough came just after the hour mark. Neo Rapoo delivered a precise corner from the right, and Smith rose above the Nigerian defence to head home powerfully from close range, his first goal of the tournament and a crucial one for the Amajita.

Nigeria responded with urgency, introducing Rickson Mendos and Bidemi Amole in a double substitution aimed at revitalizing their attack. The Flying Eagles pressed high, launching wave after wave of attacks in the final minutes, but were repeatedly denied by the brilliance of South African goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe.

Lowe produced a series of outstanding saves, notably stopping close-range efforts from Emmanuel Chukwu and a diving header from Israel Ayuma as Nigeria desperately searched for an equaliser.

Despite the pressure, South Africa held firm, showing defensive discipline and composure in midfield to see out the result and extend their unbeaten streak at the Suez Canal Stadium to four matches.

The win sends South Africa into their second-ever U-20 AFCON final and their first since finishing as runners-up in 1997.