Qualifying a boost for development

Amajita coach Thabo Senong (right) believes qualification for the Fifa Under-20 World Cup is vital for the development of South African football.

Amajita finished second in Group B at the Caf Africa Cup of Nations in Zambia, following a 3-1 victory over Sudan in their last group phase match. That was enough to qualify them for a semifinal tomorrow against Zambia, and for the World Cup in South Korea later this year.

“Well done to Sudan, but we had to win today. This win, qualifying for the Caf Under-20 Afcon semifinal and the Fifa World Cup is an important part of the development of South African football,” said Senong.

South Africa won two of their group stage games to finish on six points, one point behind Senegal.

Going into the semifinals against Zambia in Lusaka, the Amajita coach added that they would work on their defending after conceding five goals in their three group games.

“We are not happy that we have conceded five goals in the group stages and this is not normal for us. Once again we will go back to the drawing board to prepare ... for the semis.”

South African Football Association president Danny Jordan was pleased with the team’s achievement and shared Senong’s sentiments in terms of development.

“This was a major achievement and the boys have made the country proud. After our Under-17 side qualified for the World Cup last year, it is this type of progress that has seen our Vision 2022 take immediate effect,” said Jordaan.

The game between the young Chipolopolo and Amajita will be the repeat of last year’s Cosafa Cup Under-20 final in the North West, which South Africa lost 1-0.