South Africa’s Amajita are brimming with confidence as they prepare to kick off their FIFA U20 World Cup campaign in Chile, with the return of captain Asekho Tiwani providing a major boost.
Tiwani, the versatile Mamelodi Sundowns defender, missed much of the Africa U20 Cup of Nations (AFCON) earlier this year through injury but is now fully fit to lead the national side on the global stage. His leadership, according to goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe-Smythe, could be decisive.
“Tiwani’s leadership qualities are definitely not to be disputed; he is a top leader and a top footballer,” Lowe-Smythe told SABC Sport. “That is what we need in this team, players with individual quality that are also willing to lead the team by doing some of the dirty work.”
Unity and Belief Driving Amajita
Amajita head into the tournament as African champions after lifting their first-ever AFCON U20 crown in Egypt. Lowe-Smythe, who was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament, says the strength of this squad lies in its unity.
“The unity we’ve developed is a result of the environment that the coaches have presented us with. From that first camp in Lesotho two years ago, this team has grown a lot stronger together,” he said.
The Portugal-based shot-stopper, who plays for Estoril Praia in the Primeira Liga, has already been tipped for a senior call-up by Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, but insists his focus remains firmly on the World Cup.
Group E Challenge
Amajita are drawn in Group E alongside heavyweights France, the USA, and New Caledonia. They begin their campaign on Monday night (10pm) against France at the Estadio El Teniente.
Despite not knowing much about their opening opponents, Lowe-Smythe says they can rely on Sundowns analyst Tinashe-Shingai Mukandatsama, who has been tasked with providing detailed insights.
“It’s massive because the number one thing we have to do is perform and make the country proud. Our objective is to play for our country and the badge on our shirt,” Lowe-Smythe said.
After France, Amajita will face New Caledonia on Friday before concluding the group stage against the USA on Sunday.
With momentum from their AFCON triumph, the return of their skipper, and a squad built on resilience and togetherness, Amajita believe they can make history in Chile.
