SOUTH AFRICA'S Under-17 men's national team, Amajimbos, saw their spirited Fifa U-17 World Cup 2025 run come to an end following a tough 3-0 loss to Japan at the Aspire Zone Complex in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday, 15 November.
Despite the scoreline, the youngsters showed heart, bravery and real South African fighting spirit in a match whose first half could have easily gone their way.
Amajimbos created three clear chances before the break, with forwards Neo Bohloko and Selwyn Stevens both forcing brilliant saves from the Japanese goalkeeper.
The boys matched Japan stride for stride, keeping the game goalless at halftime and giving themselves hope of a historic quarterfinal spot.
But the second half told a different story.
As Japan grew more confident, Amajimbos goalkeeper Lwandiso Radebe found himself under increasing pressure. He pulled off several important saves, but Japan eventually broke through in the 48th minute through Hiroto Asada.
South Africa tried to fight back, but Japan doubled their lead when Minato Yoshida made it 2-0 in the 59th, before Shota Fujii sealed the result with a third goal in the 72nd minute.
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Coach Vela Khumalo admitted that it was a game of missed chances and costly mistakes.
"It was a game of two halves. We were in it in the first half and should have taken the chances we created. The second half was more of a mistake from us and they scored, and it opened up the game" he said.
"To be honest, the boys played well and showed character. Their goalkeeper was the Man of the Match. We take a bow and say thank you to South Africans for the support."
Amajimbos have plenty to be proud of after returning to the World Cup stage for the first time in 10 years and becoming SA's first U-17 men's team ever to reach the knockout stages.
Their journey included a 3-1 victory over Bolivia, a 1-1 draw with hosts Qatar, and a 3-1 loss to Italy in the group stages before advancing to the Round of 16.
Khumalo said the tournament has been full of lessons.
"In the World Cup, you learn so many things. Even if you're good on the ball, if you don't use it properly, you'll be punished. Tactical discipline, timing and decision-making are key," he said.
South Africa joins Egypt, Zambia, Tunisia and Senegal in exiting the competition, while Morocco, Mali, Uganda and Burkina Faso progressed.
Japan will now face North Korea in the last 16, while Amajimbos are expected to land back home on Monday afternoon, 17 November.
