Latest news with #Under-20
IOL News
20-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Smythe-Lowe not in a hurry to move to greener pastures after success with Amajita at Under -20 Afcon
Fletcher Smythe-Lowe of Amajita was awarded the honour of Goalkeeper of the Tournament for the recently concluded Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations. Photo Itumeleng English Image: Itumeleng English Amid roaring cheers and a sea of jubilant supporters at OR Tambo International Airport, Fletcher Smythe-Lowe returned home as one of Amajita's standout heroes from the recent Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations. Fresh off a stellar campaign in Egypt, the 18-year-old goalkeeper didn't just help South Africa lift the trophy — he also earned the prestigious Goalkeeper of the Tournament award, underlining his growing reputation as one of the country's brightest young talents. Calm, composed and mature beyond his years, Smythe-Lowe took a moment during the media frenzy to reflect on his journey, his performance, and the road still ahead. Video Player is loading. 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Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading The 18-year-old was at his best for South African U20 men's national team, keeping four clean sheets across seven matches. His performances were particularly commendable during the knockout stage, where he did not concede a single goal in three consecutive 1-0 victories. Smythe-Lowe also claimed the Player of the Match award in the final against Morocco, thanks to a series of nail-biting saves and an assist for Gomolemo Kekana's solo goal. His overall display endeared him to football fans both at home and abroad, with many raving about his performances. However, Smythe-Lowe's journey could have taken a different path were it not for the Covid-19 pandemic, which forced him and his family to take a repatriation flight to Portugal after his mother took a sabbatical. 'When I left, I wasn't thinking about professional football, but what was best for me and my family,' Smythe-Lowe said. 'But obviously, when you put in the work and stay consistent, opportunities will come. So I didn't really have that in mind.' [WATCH] #U20AFCON goalkeeper of the tournament Fletcher Smythe-Lowe tells Newzroom Afrika's @vuyo_macoba that it's a great honour to be compared to the likes of Ronwen Williams. #Amajita — Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) May 20, 2025 His performances in Egypt during Afcon brought him closer to the game than ever before, but also exposed him to the harsh demands of professional football. 'It definitely made me fall in love with football, but it also showed me how rigorous it can be,' Smythe-Lowe admitted. 'Seven games — the most in a tournament — over three weeks, with a match every three days, was no easy feat. It's almost impossible to do what we did. But it speaks volumes that everyone—from the players, coaching staff, to the personnel behind the scenes, who don't usually get credit—put in an incredible effort.' Smythe-Lowe revealed that he had not yet received any offers from South African or European-based clubs following his exploits in Egypt. However, that may not remain the case for long. His performances have left such a lasting impression that many tip him to be among the first names on the squad list for the Fifa Under-20 World Cup in Chile. He is not taking anything for granted, though, and plans to rest for the next two weeks before beginning pre-season training with Estoril Praia U19s in Portugal. From early days to glory days. 🌟 Fletcher Lowe & Lee Ahshene, the journey continues. 🇿🇦#TotalEnergiesAFCONU20 — CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) May 15, 2025 'What I need to do now is go back home to Portugal, keep working hard and earn a place to play in the World Cup — even if I am the Goalkeeper of the Tournament,' he said. 'It's amazing to be named the best goalkeeper at Afcon — not only for me, but for the team, the fans, and everyone involved. But you have to earn the privilege to play in the World Cup. 'So, I think it's very important for me to stay focused, work hard, remain humble and dedicated. I must continue putting effort into my game.' Smythe-Lowe began his football journey at Ubuntu Cape Town and is a staunch Kaizer Chiefs supporter. He looks up to Chiefs legend Itumeleng Khune, but is not under pressure to follow in his footsteps — or to join other local giants like Orlando Pirates or Mamelodi Sundowns, or even European heavyweights — just yet. 'It's always a possibility to play in the PSL,' he said. 'But like I've said, it's just about working hard for now. I'm only 18 and still have many opportunities. I'll see where the future takes me.'
The Citizen
20-05-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Broos gives advice to Amajita players after AFCON triumph
'Everything now starts for you,' the Bafana head coach told Amajita's players. Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has congratulated Amajita for winning the 2025 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. ALSO READ: Amajita down Morocco to clinch first AFCON title Raymond Mdaka's side beat Morocco 1-0 in the final on Sunday at the June 30 stadium in Cairo to win the tournament for the first time ever. Amajita World Cup bound Amajita will also play in the Fifa Under-20 World Cup in Chile from September 27 to October 19. 'Congratulations to coach Raymond for the fantastic job he did in the last two or three weeks,' Broos told a press conference at the OR Tambo International Airport, as Amajita's heroes arrived back in the country. 'I followed nearly every game, and congratulations to you for the motivation you gave the team. I saw when they were playing that they were motivated and wanted to get a big result. 'Congratulations for the tactical moves and the fantastic mentality the team showed on the field. I think you did a great job bringing the trophy to South Africa. 'And also congratulations to the team. Getting to the top is easy but staying there is so much more difficult. Everything now starts for you. 'You are at a crossroads, to take the right direction and I hope we will see you in the next months, next year with Bafana … or maybe abroad. 'It is up to you now. You have an opportunity to have a nice life for the next ten to 12 years as a professional footballer. But you still have to work really hard in the next months. 'You also certainly have to take the right lifestyle. That is very important.' Amajita head coach Raymond Mdaka, meanwhile, reflected on a tournament where his side bounced back brilliantly after losing their opening match to hosts Egypt. 'The first game looked like a loss but we were able to go back, and pick up what to do, and how best to work on our game,' said Mdaka. 'The character to fight' 'We went to the extent of saying sometimes it doesn't work out tactically … but you have to have the character to fight.' ALSO READ: Pirates beat Chiefs to midfield signing Amajita went on to beat Tanzania and Sierra Leone, before drawing with Zambia to finish top of Group A. Mdaka's side then beat DR Congo, Nigeria and Morocco, all with a 1-0 scoreline, to lift the trophy.
See - Sada Elbalad
18-05-2025
- Sport
- See - Sada Elbalad
EU, CAF Forge Landmark Partnership to Empower African Youth Through Football
Ahmed Emam In a step intended to strengthen youth development and visibility of European investments across Africa, the European Union (EU) and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) decided to ink a three-year cooperation and sponsorship agreement. The deal, which was formalized ahead of the CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations Final in Cairo, is set to deepen collaboration between Europe and Africa through sport, education, and community engagement. Signed by European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela and CAF President Patrice Motsepe, the agreement marks a strategic alliance between the EU and Africa's football governing body. It will channel support toward CAF's youth and safeguarding programmes while promoting the EU's Global Gateway initiative, which seeks to mobilize up to €150 billion in sustainable investments across Africa by 2027. At the heart of the partnership is the CAF African Schools Championship—Africa's largest youth football competition. Since its launch in 2022, the tournament has involved more than 1.9 million boys and girls from 46 countries. With the EU's backing, the competition is expected to expand to 33,000 schools, combining football with leadership training, education, and community involvement. The initiative is designed not only to foster talent on the pitch but to instill critical life values such as respect, perseverance, and teamwork. Prize money awarded to winners is reinvested into schools through infrastructure projects and educational resources. The EU-CAF agreement also bolsters efforts to protect young athletes through the continent-wide Safeguarding Programme, launched by CAF in 2022. The initiative includes the appointment of dedicated safeguarding officers in all 54 CAF member associations, training sessions on preventing exploitation and trafficking, and a series of awareness campaigns under the banner #ProtectTheDream. These measures aim to create safe environments for children and teenagers involved in football as they transition from grassroots to elite levels. Beyond youth competitions, the EU will be actively involved in several of CAF's flagship tournaments, including the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in 2025 and 2026, the Men's AFCON in 2025 and 2027, and ongoing safeguarding and school-based activities. These events provide a significant platform for the EU to enhance its presence and reinforce its commitment to Africa's development goals. The partnership reflects a broader EU strategy to use sport as a driver for social change. Through the Global Gateway initiative, the EU is investing in areas ranging from renewable energy and digital infrastructure to education and healthcare. Projects such as the Lobito Corridor in Southern Africa, the Nachtigal Hydropower Plant in Cameroon, and vocational training programmes in Angola and Senegal underline Europe's long-term commitment to Africa's sustainable growth. Motsepe praised the agreement as a transformative step for African football and youth empowerment. 'Football is more than a game. It's a platform to build futures, strengthen communities, and create lasting partnerships,' he said. Commissioner Síkela echoed the sentiment, calling the partnership 'a bridge between continents' that will deliver impact where it's needed most. read more Japan Stun Spain 2-1 to Qualify for World Cup Last 16 World Cup 2022: Get to Know Confirmed Line-ups of Japan and Spain Group E Decider Saudi Arabia Bid Farewell to World Cup after 2-1 Loss to Mexico Tunisia Achieve Historic Win over France but Fail to Qualify Tunisia to Clash against France in World Cup Sports Get to Know Squad of Group D Teams in World Cup Sports Al Ahly Gift EGP 70,000 to Players After Claiming Egyptian Super Cup Title Sports Bencharki Hits First 2 Goals with Al Jazira Since Leaving Zamalek Sports Arsenal Possible Line-up for Nottingham Forest News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War
Irish Examiner
09-05-2025
- Sport
- Irish Examiner
Henry Pollock vows to be himself as Lions pick sparks comparison to Luke Littler
Henry Pollock has vowed to stay true to himself in Australia this summer with his British and Irish Lions team-mate Alex Mitchell comparing his rise to that of darts star Luke Littler. Pollock is the youngest tourist in Andy Farrell's 38-man squad having been selected as a bolter just three months after competing in the Under-20 Six Nations for England. Farrell wants the high-energy 20-year-old, who plays with a swagger and is known for his exuberant try celebrations, to be fearless in his challenge for a Test spot – and Pollock is happy to oblige. 'I think it's important to be myself. I don't want to go into environments and change,' said the Northampton flanker, who has delivered the performances to justify the hype. 'I want to be my unique self, wherever I am. I won't be going into my shell any time soon. I just play with loads of confidence. 'The last year has been mad, a whirlwind and everything has come so fast. I am definitely going on the tour to try and play. I don't want to sit there and watch. But if I am watching, I would be happy too.' A year ago Pollock had yet to start a Gallagher Premiership match for Northampton but this season he has taken English rugby by storm, winning his first cap and now Lions selection. Mitchell, who has also been picked by Farrell as one of four Saints heading Down Under, sees similarities between the back row and Littler, the 18-year-old youngest world darts champions in history. 'Henry loves the limelight. He's so confident. He's obviously a quality player and it's class to see. It's great to see stories like this – similar to Luke Littler. People love it,' Mitchell said. 'It's nice to see him play with freedom and enjoying his rugby. A lot of boys who have come through the system, they stick to a system or overthink things. But he's full of heart. He's being himself and that's what people love to see.' Tommy Freeman completes the Northampton quartet alongside Fin Smith and the try-machine believes Pollock's personality is good for the game. 'He's got all these followers, he's just nailing it, isn't he? It's unbelievable. He's one hell of a character,' Freeman said. 'You just want to give him s*** but you can't. Until he plays really crap, you can't. He's just a legend. I just hope it continues and he keeps doing his thing, strutting about the way he does. I do think rugby needs it. 'I'm not saying it's in a bad spot but it needs characters. It needs people to bring interest. There are Pollock headbands going for sale and yeah, you need that.' As the youngest tourist, Pollock will have the duty of looking after the squad mascot, a cuddly toy lion called 'BIL', throughout the six-week odyssey Down Under. 'I feel bad for him spending time with me! It is going to be a long trip for him, so all the best to him!' Pollock said.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
'Best day of my life' - Pollock on Lions call
Northampton Saints flanker Henry Pollock says his selection for the British and Irish Lions' tour of Australia was "the best day of his life". The 20-year-old, who started the year off playing for England in the Under-20 Six Nations, was named in Andy Farrell's 38-strong party on Thursday to mark a rapid rise. Pollock went on to score two tries on his England senior debut against Wales in March, before starring for Saints as they reached the Investec Champions Cup final on 24 May. "It sounds mad [to say I am a British and Irish Lion] . I am honoured and can't really believe it," Pollock told BBC Look East. "We were all watching it and hoping for the best and when it got announced, all the boys jumped on me. "It was a feeling I will never forget. It was probably the best day of my life." Pollock's inclusion generated the loudest cheer from about 2,000 fans inside Indigo, a venue within London's O2 Arena complex. The flanker, who is the youngest player in the squad, won World Rugby's Under-20 Championship in July with England, before making his first Premiership start in October. Pollock has gone on to establish himself in Northampton's competitive back row, and on Saturday scored a sensational solo try by showing incredible pace to round Leinster fly-half Sam Prendergast in their Champions Cup semi-final win in Dublin. Five talking points from Lions squad announcement The Lions squad pod with Itoje and Farrell I was brash and naive in 2017, now I'm ready - Itoje Four Saints players were named in Farrell's squad with Tommy Freeman, Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith all joining Pollock, who watched the announcement with a number of his team-mates. "I walked out of the room and tried to phone my mum, who didn't pick up which was class," he joked. "I then called mum and dad and they were balling their eyes out crying. "I am just so happy that I've made them happy, I am honoured." Pollock was selected instead of Toulouse flanker Jack Willis, Sale Sharks' Ben Curry and Scotland's Rory Darge, with Farrell admitting that, in the end, he did not need convincing about selecting the one-cap flanker. An all-action display on both sides of the ball against Leinster, who have 12 players heading on the Lions tour, showed Pollock can compete with the best and he plans to show that in Australia. He faces tough back row competition in Ireland's Jack Conan and Josh van der Flier, England pair Tom Curry and Ben Earl, and Wales captain Jac Morgan, but remains confident of adding value. "It is the pinnacle of the sport and everything that you work for and want to achieve in rugby," he added. "I hope to bring a different X-factor and just be myself. I am not going to go there and go into my shell, I am just going to be myself and hopefully bring a different side to the squad than other players."
