South Africa seek consistency as DR Congo look to upset odds in U20 AFCON quarter-final
South Africa will take on DR Congo in the last of the four quarter-final ties at the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025, with kick-off set for 18:00 GMT in Ismailia on Monday.
Despite finishing top of Group A, South Africa’s campaign has raised more questions than answers.
The Amajita suffered a 1-0 defeat to hosts Egypt in their opener, bounced back emphatically with a 4-1 thrashing of Sierra Leone, but then stumbled to a 1-1 draw with Zambia.
They ultimately finished level on points with both Egypt and Sierra Leone, advancing on goal difference.
Coach Raymond Ndaka's side have shown glimpses of brilliance — particularly through Thabang Mahlangu, who has netted twice — but will need greater consistency and defensive stability against a DR Congo side that can be dangerous when underestimated.
DR Congo, returning to the tournament for the first time in over a decade, sneaked into the quarter-finals as one of the best third-placed teams. Their journey has been marked by promise and vulnerability.
They began brightly, holding Ghana to a 1-1 draw before producing a convincing 3-1 win over the Central African Republic. But a 2-0 loss to Senegal, in which they conceded two penalties, exposed their lack of experience at this level.
Still, Samuel Ntanda has been a bright spark with two goals, and Noah Makanza’s double against CAR confirmed the attacking potential of Guy Bukasa’s team. Midfielder Landry Soko has also impressed with his ball-winning ability and aggressive pressing.
DR Congo’s defensive frailties, however, remain a concern — they’ve conceded in every group game — and South Africa’s attacking unit will look to exploit that.
With Shakeel April pulling the strings in midfield and Mahlangu offering pace and end product, Amajita will feel they have the tools to reach the semi-finals.
Historically, South Africa have been solid performers at youth level, reaching the semi-finals of the U20 AFCON three times since 2009. DR Congo, meanwhile, are looking to reach the last four for the first time.
The tie is likely to come down to whether South Africa can rediscover the attacking verve they showed against Sierra Leone, and whether DR Congo can stay organised and disciplined under pressure.
With a semi-final spot at stake and the pathway to continental glory narrowing, both sides will approach the clash knowing this is a rare and valuable opportunity.