Emile Witbooi has been named Player of the Match after helping Amajita secure a 2-1 victory over Mozambique in the COSAFA U20 Championship final on Sunday.
The Cape Town City youngster produced another impressive display as South Africa successfully defended their regional crown, beating the hosts at ABB Stadium 1 in Matola.
Witbooi’s recognition adds another personal highlight to what has been an impressive tournament for the young attacker.
Witbooi Impresses in the Final
South Africa started the final strongly and took the lead through Oarabile Booysen, who found the back of the net with a long-range strike.
Mozambique responded quickly, with Martinho Começar bringing the hosts level.
The match remained closely contested as both teams looked for the crucial second goal.
South Africa eventually regained the advantage when Steven Mendes converted from the penalty spot in the 58th minute.
Although Witbooi did not get his name on the scoresheet in the final, his overall contribution and attacking influence earned him the Player of the Match award, according to COSAFA’s official social media announcement.
Another Important Performance from Witbooi
Witbooi has been one of the standout young players for Amajita during the tournament.
His biggest moment came in the semi-final against Zambia, when he produced a spectacular individual effort to seal South Africa’s 4-2 victory.
After receiving the ball, Witbooi showed excellent close control and dribbled past several defenders before calmly finishing to put the result beyond doubt.
The goal secured Amajita’s place in the final and helped South Africa qualify for the 2027 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana.
Amajita Complete a Perfect Tournament
Witbooi’s Player of the Match award came on a special day for South African football.
Amajita won all five of their matches at the tournament, scoring 13 goals and conceding only three.
The 2-1 victory over Mozambique also secured South Africa’s third consecutive COSAFA U20 Championship title, following their successes in 2024 and 2025.
South Africa and Mozambique had already secured qualification for the 2027 U20 AFCON by reaching the final.
A Bright Future for Witbooi
At just 18 years old, Witbooi continues to attract attention with his performances for both club and country.
The Cape Town City attacker arrived late into the Amajita camp after club commitments but quickly made his presence felt during the tournament.
His combination of pace, close control and confidence in one-on-one situations has made him an important attacking option for Raymond Mdaka.
The Player of the Match award in the final provides further recognition of his contribution to Amajita’s successful title defence.
Another Trophy for Amajita
With the final whistle confirming a 2-1 victory, South Africa celebrated another COSAFA U20 championship.
For Witbooi, the Player of the Match award is another memorable achievement from a tournament in which he has continued to showcase his talent on the international stage.
Amajita now turn their attention to the 2027 CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana, where they will look to build on their latest regional success.
Final: South Africa 2-1 Mozambique
Competition: COSAFA U20 Championship
Venue: ABB Stadium 1, Matola
Date: 27 September 2026
Player of the Match: Emile Witbooi
Champions: South Africa
