Amajita coach Raymond Mdaka commended his team’s character and determination after they secured a victory over the United States, booking their spot in the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup U20. 

The 2-1 win on Sunday marked a significant milestone for Amajita, who came into the game sitting in third position in Group E with three points.  

Despite the challenging task ahead, Amajita’s coach, Raymond Mdaka, praised his team’s character and determination, saying, “Firstly, let me congratulate the boys because they did a very good job; they showed character, they showed that they are the African champions.” 

Mdaka’s team faced an uphill battle against the United States, which had already won its first two games with an impressive goal tally.  

However, Amajita’s resolve and teamwork paid off, as they took to the field with a clear plan and executed it to perfection. 

“It was not an easy game playing the USA, who had already won the first two games with many goals,” Mdaka said.  

“So, it looked like it was a mountain to climb, but then we agreed as a team that let’s show up what we can do as a team.” 

The African champions took the lead just before halftime and managed to hold off the United States’ pressure in the second half, showcasing their tactical acumen and character.  

Mdaka praised his team’s ability to manage the game under pressure. 

“I’m happy that we showed the character, and you see what the score was in the first half, and we had to play the second half and be able to manage and maintain the game under pressure,” he added.  

“They were coming at us, but we were able to manage the game tactically and character-wise, something that’s always important for the team sometimes.” 

The win saw Amajita finish second in Group E with six points, alongside the United States, who topped the group, and France, who finished third but qualified as one of the best third-place teams.  

Amajita will now face Colombia in the last 16 on Wednesday evening at Estadio Fiscal de Talca.  

This will be the second time the South Africans have reached the last 16 of the World Cup, and they will be hoping to make history by reaching the quarterfinals for the first time. 

Mdaka concluded by crediting the entire team, including the technical staff and support crew, for the achievement, saying, “Credit to the boys, credit to the technical team, the support staff, and everybody because the atmosphere always gives the boys the energy to go. Now here we’re, going into the knockout stage – I’m really happy for everyone in the club.” 

SAFA president Danny Jordaan said in the message to Sportswire about the win:   

“Wonderful, great for Amajita to beat the USA. Head of Delegation Solomon Mkhabela, Coach Mdaka, and players, what a performance. Well done.”