Amajita coach Raymond Mdaka praised Steven Mendes’ emergence at the U20 COSAFA Cup, highlighting the young striker’s potential amid South Africa’s ongoing concerns in front of goal.
Mendes finished the recently concluded U20 COSAFA Cup in Mozambique as the tournament’s Golden Boot winner after scoring six goals, including another important strike in the final as South Africa defeated hosts Os Mambas 2-1 to lift the trophy.
The youngster’s performances have earned praise from Mdaka, who believes Mendes can develop into an even better striker if he continues to work hard and remains disciplined.
“I’m pleased to see him play like this,” Mdaka said.
“You see the issue of strikers in the country, but to see that kind of a small boy, a young boy, coming up like that in front of the goals.
“He just needs a bit of hard work, discipline and understanding. He will become a better player.”
Mendes’ goalscoring form comes at a time when the lack of experienced and consistent goalscorers remains a talking point in South African football.
Current Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has also acknowledged the need for a striker, with the national team continuing to search for greater consistency in front of goal.
The issue was evident during Hugo Broos’ five-year tenure with Bafana, while South African strikers have also continued to struggle for goals in the Betway Premiership.
Mdaka also highlighted the contribution of captain Lazola Maku, whose experience and character proved valuable throughout Amajita’s successful campaign.
Maku was included in the U20 COSAFA Cup Best XI after an impressive tournament, despite being unattached heading into the competition following Siwelele’s decision to part ways with him. He also did not undergo pre-season training with the club.
However, Mdaka believes Maku’s experience from previous tournaments played a significant role in his performances and praised the character he displayed throughout the competition.
“Yeah, well, you know, the experience has done a lot, honestly, especially in this tournament,” he added.
“He showed character. He showed the experience of having played in the other tournaments. Sometimes when you are Under-18, it depends on those who know you.
“I know Lazola best. Even if I would get him not being fine, I would believe he would fight. Good for him, honestly.”
Amajita will now turn their attention to the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, which gets underway in February 2027 in Ghana.
South Africa will aim to defend the continental title they won in Egypt in 2025, with both Mendes and Maku expected to carry the confidence gained from their impressive COSAFA Cup campaign into their next challenge.
