South Africa’s Under-20 men’s national team coach, Raymond Mdaka, has officially named the 21-man squad that will represent the country at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), taking place in Egypt from 27 April to 18 May.
The biennial continental youth tournament will see South Africa compete among Africa’s best, with Senegal entering as defending champions.
In addition to the final squad, Mdaka has also named four standby players: Gabriel Amato, Thato Sibiya, Naledi Hlongwane, and Thato Mpati.
“This list consists of the core of the team players who have been part of our journey since the beginning of our preparations, including the COSAFA tournament,” Mdaka said.
“We’ve also included players who weren’t with us in Mozambique, such as Mfundo Vilakazi, Asekho Tiwane, Langelihle Phili, and Siviwe Nkwali.”
One notable player is Shandre Campbell, with Mdaka confirming that the Club Brugge forward was unavailable due to his commitments with the Belgian side’s first team and their ongoing league campaign.
The full squad, including the four standby players, will report for camp in Johannesburg on 20 April 2025.
The stakes are high at this year’s tournament, as the top four teams will secure qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, set to be held in Chile in September.
The u-20 Bafana Bafana AFCON team:
Goalkeepers: Fletcher Lowe-Smythe , Takalani Mazhamba , Kgoleng Ratisani.
Defenders: Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Gopolang Taunyane, Tylon Smith, Sifiso Timba , Asekho Tiwani, Neo Rapoo.
Midfielders: Gomolemo Kekana, Patrick Autata, Lazola Maku, Mfundo Vilakazi, Faiz Abraham, Langelihle Phili, Shakiel April, Kutlwano Lethlaku.
Forwards: Jody Ah Shene, Thabang Mahlangu, Kgomotso Modiba
Players on standby: Gabriel Amato, Thato Sibiya, Naledi Hlongwane, Thato Mpati.
Written by: Mandisa Maphisa
