Nigeria's aspirations for a record eighth African U-20 Cup of Nations title were dashed as South Africa secured a 1-0 victory in the semi-final at the Suez Canal Stadium, Ismaila, Egypt. The Flying Eagles, after a shaky start to the championship, had shown promise by defeating defending champions Senegal in the quarterfinals via a penalty shootout. However, their persistent inability to convert scoring opportunities proved costly against a disciplined Amajita side.

The decisive moment arrived in the 66th minute when Tyron Christopher Smith headed home a corner from Neo Duncan Rapoo. This goal, Smith’s first of the tournament, was sufficient to secure South Africa’s place in the final.

Despite dominating for significant periods in the second half, Nigeria was left to regret missed chances, particularly as South African goalkeeper Fletcher Lowe produced crucial saves in the closing stages to deny Emmanuel Chukwu and Israel Ayuma. The first half was a cautious affair, with both teams struggling to create clear-cut opportunities. Tahir Maigana of Nigeria and Kutlwano Letlhaku of South Africa had early efforts saved in a goalless first half, despite Nigeria's slightly superior attacking presence.

Nigeria responded to South Africa's goal with urgency, making double substitutions in the 65th minute to inject pace and energy into their attack. Rickson Mendos and Bidemi Amole almost made immediate impacts, launching a series of intense assaults on the South African goal. Ayuma had two notable chances to equalize, including a diving header that Lowe saved brilliantly. However, South Africa's strong defense and composed midfield play saw them through to the final, extending their unbeaten run at the Suez Canal Stadium to four games.

This victory marks South Africa's second U-20 AFCON final appearance, their first since 1997 when they finished as runners-up. Conversely, Nigeria has now suffered a third consecutive semi-final defeat in the tournament, following losses to Gambia (2023) and Mali (2019).

South Africa's journey to the final has been characterized by solid defense and efficient goal-scoring. The win against Nigeria extends their unbeaten streak to five matches, their longest in U-20 AFCON history.

In other news, the Supreme Court of Appeal is scheduled to deliver judgment on Dr. Nandipha Magudumana’s challenge to her deportation from Tanzania, where she seeks to nullify the charges against her. Magudumana’s legal team appealed to the Supreme Court after the Free State High Court determined she had consented to her return to South Africa in April 2023, dismissing her claims of abduction by the police. Magudumana is the primary accused in the Thabo Bester escape case, facing charges including fraud, corpse violation, corruption, and obstruction of justice.