South Africa edged by France in Under-20 World Cup opener
South Africa succumbed to a late 2-1 defeat to France in their 2025 FIFA Under-20 World Cup Group E opener on Monday, but showed enough to suggest they can advance from the group.
An 80th minute Lucas Michal strike saw France earn all three points in Rancagua. Michal turned on the edge of the area, drove inside and unleashed a powerful effort into the bottom-right corner.
There was early alarm for COSAFA side South Africa as Tadjidine Mmadi shot just wide before Mayssam Benama struck the base of the post.
Bernard Diomede’s side eventually broke the deadlock 25 minutes in, as Anthony Bermont drilled home from just inside the area.
Their lead lasted less than 10 minutes, however, as Kutlwano Letlhaku burst into the France box and was brought down by Elyaz Zidane, the youngest son of French icon Zinedine Zidane. Jody Ahshene stepped up and rolled the spot-kick home.
But South Africa could not hold on for what would have been a golden point, though they will hope for victory in their next match against New Caledonia in the early hours of Friday morning (South Africa time).