South Africa captured the U20 Africa Cup of Nations title on Sunday with a 1-0 victory over Morocco in a tightly contested final at Cairo International Stadium.
Gomolemo Kekana scored the match’s only goal in the 70th minute, latching onto a long pass from goalkeeper Smythe-Lowe and firing into the top corner. The goal was initially ruled out for offside but was later awarded after a VAR review.
The win marked South Africa’s first U20 AFCON title and served as redemption for the senior national team’s 1997 loss to Morocco in the tournament final. South Africa now succeeds Senegal as continental champions, after the defending titleholders were eliminated by Nigeria in a penalty shootout during the semifinals.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe and Vice President Fouzi Lekjaa, who also heads the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, attended the final.
Despite registering 15 shots, including six on target, Morocco was unable to beat Smythe-Lowe, whose performance in goal proved decisive.
Earlier, Nigeria secured third place with a penalty shootout victory over host nation Egypt. The Pharaohs struck first with Omar Osama scoring in the 3rd minute, but Nigeria equalized early in the second half through Bidemi Amole. The match ended 1-1 in regulation and was decided from the spot.
With their semifinal appearances, South Africa, Morocco, Nigeria and Egypt all qualified for the 2025 U20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in Chile from Sept. 27 to Oct. 19.
The tournament continues to highlight Africa’s rising football talent, with all four teams now preparing to compete on the global stage.