Doors flying open for Amajita's Tylon

"THEY were crying, especially my mom!" said Tylon Smith after returning from Egypt triumphant after Amajita defeated Morocco 1-0 to be crowned Afcon Under-20 champions.

- ZAAHIER ADAMS

The Smith household certainly has plenty to celebrate after the Stellenbosch FC rookie centre-back was also named Player of the Tournament for his courageous displays in the heart of the South Africa Under-20 defence.

His performance was capped with the winning goal against the much-fancied Nigeria in the semi-final.

The 19-year-old, known for his composure on the ball and ability to dictate the tempo from defence, played every minute of Amajita’s successful campaign, and believes it was his mentality - along with mother’s prayers - that helped him over the past fortnight.