Rapturous welcome for victorious Amajita on their return home

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi proudly wrapped Amajita captain Patrick Autata in the South African flag as the victorious Under-20 men’s national football team returned home to a rapturous welcome on Monday morning.

Amajita made history on Sunday by becoming the first South African Under-20 side to win the Africa Youth Championship, following a triumphant campaign in Egypt.

Their arrival at OR Tambo International Airport brought the international arrivals precinct to a virtual standstill, as fans, families, and football enthusiasts gathered to welcome the champions. Chanting and singing filled the terminal as South Africans celebrated the team’s remarkable achievement.

Autata, who held the trophy aloft before the cheering crowd, was honoured by Lesufi with the symbolic gesture of being cloaked in the national flag – a powerful moment of pride for both the player and the country.

Joining Lesufi on stage during the official press conference in the airport’s auditorium were several high-profile dignitaries, including South African Football Association (Safa) president Danny Jordaan and Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos.

Although Broos appeared somewhat distracted during proceedings, he offered praise for Amajita coach Raymond Mdaka and his team, delivering a strong message to the young players:

“You know, guys, achieving the top is easy, but staying at the top is much more difficult. Everything starts now for you. You are at a crossroads.

“Take the right direction, and I’ll see you next month or next year at Bafana Bafana, or with a big team locally or abroad. Take the wrong way, and … well, it’s up to you.

“You’ve got every opportunity to enjoy a good life for the next 10 to 12 years as a professional footballer – and believe me, it’s the nicest profession you can imagine. But you must work hard, and having the right lifestyle is crucial.

“I hope to welcome some of you at Bafana next month. Again, congratulations to the coach and the guys!”

Broos’ comments reflected a commitment to monitoring the progress of the young champions, potentially fast-tracking some into the senior national setup.

However, the pressing question of player bonuses loomed large during the media event, especially given Safa’s widely reported financial challenges. Asked how the federation plans to reward the team, Jordaan was vague:

“We have not (yet) received any money from CAF. When we have the money, we will decide,” he said, referring to the expected prize money of approximately R3.6 million.

Jordaan downplayed concerns about Safa’s financial health, adding that the organisation had never failed to cover the basic costs for national teams, including flights, accommodation, and allowances during international duties.

One corporate sponsor, however, stepped up. Safa’s mobile phone partner, Honor, pledged to reward each player with smartphones and earphones in recognition of their continental success.

Coach Mdaka, visibly emotional during the occasion, congratulated his players and technical team for overcoming numerous challenges en route to their historic triumph.

“It wasn’t easy, but the players gave everything. I’m proud of how far we’ve come,” he said.

With a place at the Fifa Under-20 World Cup now secured, Mdaka and his team will be hoping for continued backing from SAFA to ensure thorough preparation – especially after receiving such a heartfelt heroes’ welcome.