The president of the South African Football Association, Dr. Danny Jordaan, has commended the national under-17 team for its historic performance at the FIFA World Cup. The squad, known as Amajimbos, advanced to the tournament's knockout stage for the first time by finishing second in its group.
Coach Vela Khumalo's team earned four points in the group phase, which included an inaugural victory in its opening match. Jordaan praised the team's quality and growth, noting that international observers had been impressed with its style of play. He highlighted the importance of structured youth development programs in achieving this success, while also acknowledging the developmental gap between South African players and their European counterparts.
This milestone marks a significant achievement for the country's youth football system. The team's progression mirrors the recent successes of other South African national youth sides, signaling a positive trend for the sport's future in the nation.
Coach Vela Khumalo's team earned four points in the group phase, which included an inaugural victory in its opening match. Jordaan praised the team's quality and growth, noting that international observers had been impressed with its style of play. He highlighted the importance of structured youth development programs in achieving this success, while also acknowledging the developmental gap between South African players and their European counterparts.
This milestone marks a significant achievement for the country's youth football system. The team's progression mirrors the recent successes of other South African national youth sides, signaling a positive trend for the sport's future in the nation.
