Amajimbos vs Japan Preview: Team News, Form Guide and Kick-off Time - FIFA U17 World Cup 2025

All Set! Amajimbos Fully Fit and Fired Up to Face Japan in World Cup Knockouts

The nation is holding its breath as South Africa’s U-17 national team, Amajimbos, prepare for one of their most important matches in history — a FIFA U-17 World Cup Round of 32 clash against Japan at the Aspire Zone in Doha on Saturday afternoon (15:30 local time).

Coach Vela Khumalo’s side head into the knockout stage full of belief after a spirited group campaign that saw them finish second in Group A, behind Italy. South Africa defeated Bolivia 3–1, drew 1–1 with hosts Qatar, and fell 3–1 to Italy in their final game. The four points were enough to secure a historic qualification spot — marking the first time an Amajimbos side has reached the knockout phase at a FIFA U-17 World Cup.

The achievement also made history as South Africa’s first-ever win in a U17 World Cup opener, a feat that has united football fans across the country.

Khumalo Confident, Full Squad Fit

Ahead of the Japan clash, Khumalo confirmed that his squad has a clean bill of health — a major boost after managing several knocks during the group phase. Even Sive Pama, who missed the Qatar draw through suspension, returns to full contention.

“We’re having a clean bill of health, and that’s a plus for us,” Khumalo told SAFA media on Friday. “All the players are available and ready. It’s a good headache to have when you need to decide who starts. I don’t see us failing to go to the last 16.”

The Amajimbos’ energy and discipline have been standout features of their campaign. Emile Witbooi, the livewire attacker named Player of the Match against Qatar, and Shaun Els, who netted against Italy, have led the charge for South Africa’s attacking play.

Balancing Football and Education

Inspiring images have surfaced online of Khumalo turning his hotel room into a classroom, helping players study between training sessions. A qualified teacher and former school principal, Khumalo continues to stress the importance of education alongside football.

“My room after training became a classroom,” he laughed. “The boys are young, and it’s important they balance school and sport.”

The Task Ahead

Japan, unbeaten in the group stage, topped Group B with wins over Morocco (2–0) and Portugal (2–1) and a draw against New Caledonia (0–0). The Asian powerhouse, known for their pace and technical precision, will be a formidable opponent — but the Amajimbos have shown they can rise to any challenge.

If South Africa triumph, they will face the winner of the Venezuela vs North Korea tie in the Round of 16 — a potential pathway to their best-ever finish at this level.

“This is the World Cup — it’s about moments, and we’ve prepared for this one,” Khumalo added. “It’s going to be tough, but we’ve come too far to stop now. We’ll give it everything.”

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