23-05-2025
Tzaneen coach lifts African Cup of Nations trophy
TZANEEN – Congratulatory messages are flooding in for Raymond Mdaka, head coach of South Africa's u/20 national soccer team, Amajita, after leading the squad to a historic victory at the 2024 African Cup of Nations (Afcon).
Amajita secured a hard-fought 1–0 win over Morocco in the final, held in Egypt on Sunday night, May 18.
Mdaka, who hails from Mokgwathi village in Bolobedu and now resides in Nkowankowa, has etched his name into the history books by guiding the team to become the first South African soccer side to lift the Afcon u/20 title.
Reflecting on the win, Mdaka said the achievement goes beyond football; it symbolises belief, perseverance, and the power of opportunity.
'This trophy belongs to every young dreamer who dares to chase greatness, and to every community that nurtures those dreams. To the players, staff, families, and supporters, thank you. Let's keep building, inspiring, and empowering,' he said.
This marks the second major title for Mdaka and his young squad. In October last year, he also led Amajita to victory in the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup held in Mozambique.
In recognition of his contributions to sport, Mdaka was honored in January with the MEC of Sport, Arts and Culture Award during the Limpopo Sports Awards.
Greater Tzaneen Municipality Mayor Gerson Molapisane praised the coach's outstanding leadership and extended his congratulations.
'We are incredibly proud of coach Mdaka's exceptional guidance and the determination displayed by Amajita throughout the tournament. This victory is proof of what can be accomplished through discipline, teamwork, and resilience,' the mayor said, adding that the community is eagerly awaiting Mdaka's return to Tzaneen to celebrate the milestone.
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