Vela Khumalo relieved after Amajimbos edge Senegal in Under-17 AFCON opener

The West Africans took the lead just before halftime, with Cheikh Thior capitalising on a corner in the 44th minute to put Senegal ahead.

South Africa responded strongly after the break. Inganathi Simama restored parity three minutes into the second half, finishing off a well-worked move assisted by Aphelele Majola.

Momentum quickly shifted in favour of Amajimbos, and they completed the turnaround soon after. Reotshepile Malete's powerful 25-yard strike took a decisive deflection off Thior, resulting in an own goal that sealed the comeback win for South Africa.

Head coach Vela Khumalo admitted the performance was not at the desired level but emphasised the importance of securing all three points.

"This is what we wanted. However, it was not looking good. We did not play good football, but what matters at the moment is getting the three points. I would say we are now one step away from qualifying for the World Cup," Khumalo told Kickoff.

Khumalo added that the team is expected to improve as the tournament progresses.

"This means a lot. We will grow with the tournament. Our target is qualifying for the World Cup, and we are very close to doing that."

South Africa will next face Algeria Under-17 on Sunday, after Algeria played to a draw against Ghana U-17 in their opening fixture.