Japan U17 Overview

Lwandiso Radebe, South Africa, November 2025

Heartbreak for hard-fighting South Africa as they exit World Cup

Although the goalkeeper rose to the occasion when he was needed most, he could not proceed as he was injured minutes into the second half. After fighting hard to keep the Japanese at bay in the first half, Amajimbos fell early in the second half when they conceded the goals. Despite the result, the youngsters managed to create a sense of national pride after advancing to the knockout stage of the global competition for the first time in their history.

U17 WC: Japan vs South Africa - Kickoff time, TV channel & squad news

GOAL gives you the details to follow Amajimbos' clash with the Samurai Blue in a Round of 32 match at Aspire Zone Pitch 3 on Saturday. This is the first time South Africa have reached the knockouts of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup and they are hoping to further progress in this tournament.

Vela Khumalo, Emile Witbooi & Shaun Els, South Africa U17 16-9

Samurai steel meets Amajimbos’ fire in historic U17 FIFA WC knockout clash

The FIFA U17 World Cup Round of 32 delivers a clash of destiny: Japan’s precision and tactical mastery against South Africa’s fearless Amajimbos, who have already made history by reaching the knockouts for the first time. With Vela Khumalo’s side brimming with belief and Japan chasing consistency, this duel promises drama, skill, and a legacy beyond the scoreline.

WATCH: Andile Cele declares Emile Witbooi a 'special talent'

We sat down with the former Orlando Pirates midfielder and now U19 coach at AmaZulu to get his views on the the Amajimbos attacking midfielder and his future in the game.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	+/-	PTS	Form
12	Llandudno FC	30	10	1	19	59	80	-21	31	L W L L L
13	Prestatyn Town FC	30	7	5	18	39	74	-35	26	D L L L L
14	Porthmadog	30	6	4	20	35	66	-31	22	L D L L L
15	Chirk AAA FC	30	3	4	23	32	82	-50	13	L D W D W
16	Llanidloes Town FC	30	2	3	25	25	106	-81	9	L L L L L

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Team

+/-

PTS

Form