Six Kaizer Chiefs players have made it into South Africa U-20 coach Raymond Mdaka’s 38-man preliminary squad for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, which takes place in Cote D’Ivoire from 26 April to 18 May.

South Africa qualified for the finals after winning the COSAFA U-20 Championship in October last year.

Takalani Mazhamba is one of four goalkeepers named, while defenders, Gopolang Taunyana and Sfiso Timba look almost certain to make the final cut. In midfield, Mfundo Vilakazi, Ofentse Kgosana are sure to join them on the plane to west Africa and prolific striker, Naledi Hlongwane is also likely to be a key asset to Amajita at the prestigious event later this year. The squad will be trimmed down to 26 players before the finals get underway.

The selection of multiple young Glamour Boys reflects a recognition of the tremendous progress being made in the Kaizer Chiefs Youth Development Academy, and much credit must go to the technical staff entrusted with nurturing their talent and mentoring their growth, for this success.