France Edges Out Resilient South Africa in Hard-Fought U-20 World Cup Opener

Rancagua, Chile - France secured a vital three points to begin their FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign, defeating a determined South Africa side 2-1 in their Group E opener at the Estadio El Teniente on Monday.

The match, which proved to be a tighter contest than many expected, saw the European heavyweights take an initial lead, only for the young South African team to fight back and level the score before halftime.

Anthony Bermont opened the scoring for France in the 24th minute, but their lead was short-lived. South Africa responded with a penalty kick in the 32nd minute, coolly converted by Jody Ahshene, to send the teams into the break level at 1-1.

The second half was a tense affair, with both teams pushing for a decisive goal. It was France who eventually broke the deadlock in the 79th minute, with Lucas Michal finding the back of the net to give the favourites a 2-1 advantage which they held onto until the final whistle.

The victory sees France take an early lead in Group E, while South Africa will draw confidence from their competitive performance but must now focus on securing results in their remaining group stage matches to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.

South Africa's next challenge will be against New Caledonia on Thursday, October 2nd, while France prepares for a significant clash against the USA on the same day.

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Result Summary:

• FT: France 2-1 South Africa

• Goals: Anthony Bermont (24'), Lucas Michal (79') (France); Jody Ahshene (32' P) (South Africa)

• Competition: FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025, Group E

• Venue: Estadio El Teniente, Rancagua, Chile