Kaizer Chiefs' Mfundo Vilakazi and Orlando Pirates’ Mbekezeli Mbokazi included, Shandre Campbell dropped as Raymond Mdaka names Afcon U20 final squad

Amajita head coach Raymond Mdaka has finally announced his squad for the upcoming U20 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals to be held in Egypt.

Mdaka had named a provisional squad of 30 players, and after assessment for four weeks he has been with them, he has trimmed the squad to 21.

Kaizer Chiefs' Mfundo Vilakazi and Orlando Pirates’ Mbekezeli Mbokazi have been included in the squad, but Shandre Campbell of Club Brugge has been omitted.

Campbell's omission comes as a surprise after Mdaka had previously indicated the youngster would be available for the continental competition.

The Club Brugge star was a key figure during the qualification process, but his services will not be available for Mdaka when it matters most.

Goalkeepers: Fletcher Lowe, Takalani Mazhamba, Kgoleng Ratisani

Defenders: Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Gopolang Taunyane, Tylon Smith, Sifiso Timba, Asekho Tiwani, Siviwe Nkwali, Neo Rapoo

Midfielders: Gomolemo Kekana, Patric Autata, Lazola Maku, Mfundo Vilakazi, Faiz Abrahams, Langalihle Phili, Shakiel April, Kutlwano Lethlaku

Forwards: Jody Ah Shene, Thabang Mahlangu, and Kgomotso Modiba.

Players on standby: Gabriel Amato, Thato Sibiya, Naledi Hlongwane, and Thato Mpati.

South Africa, who are making their ninth appearance in the tournament, are in Group B, which has Egypt, Nigeria, and Morocco, teams considered continental heavyweights.

In this group, Nigeria are the most successful side, having lifted the trophy on seven occasions. On the other hand, Egypt and Morocco have been champions once each.

Amajita must work hard in this tournament because it also serves as a qualifier for the 2025 U20 World Cup finals set to take place in Chile from September 27 to October 19, 2025.

The Afcon U20 finals are set to begin on April 26 and end on May 18, 2025.

Mdaka's charges will begin their campaign against Morocco on April 30.