The South African national U17 side came short in the CAF African Youth Championships final, losing 2-0 against Mali on Sunday night.

This was the second meeting between the two teams as Molefi Ntseki’s charges had to come back from a 2-0 deficit to force a draw against Mali in the group stages of the tournament. They went on to beat Cameroon to qualify for the semi-finals and had to go through Nigeria to book their place in the final.

It was the first time in ages since a South African team reached a final of a continental tournament, with Amajita now looking to emulate their younger brothers in the U20 version of tournament, taking place from this weekend.

Amajimbos are due back in the country early this week and are sure to receive a warm welcome as they represented the country with pride. They are worthy of a perfect reception and even bigger bonuses! However, now that the tournament is over, with the next big assignment being the U17 World Cup in Chile from October-November this year, what’s next for Ntseki’s team?

Most, if not all, of these players are yet to get even a taste of the senior team action at club level, as they are being ‘protected’. Are those who have continued to prove their worth going to get the opportunity to train with their senior teams, as well as maybe get a look into from time to time, just to keep them active?

Sadly, these boys are seen as ‘too young’ to even be considered for first team. Aren’t we missing out on an opportunity to strike while the iron is still hot, so-to-speak?

What’s next for Amajita now that they are coming back home?

Please share your views in the comments section below.

Cheers.

VeeJay