Amajita return home to a rapturous welcome

GAUTENG Premier Panyaza Lesufi proudly wrapped Amajita captain Patrick Autata in the South African flag as the victorious Under-20 men's national football team returned home to a rapturous welcome on Monday morning.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Amajita made history on Sunday by becoming the first South African U20 side to win the Africa Youth Championship, following a triumphant campaign in Egypt.

Their arrival at OR Tambo International Airport brought the international arrivals precinct to a virtual standstill, as fans, families, and football enthusiasts gathered to welcome the champions. Chanting and singing filled the terminal as South Africans celebrated the team's remarkable achievement.

Autata, who held the trophy aloft before the cheering crowd, was honoured by Lesufi with the symbolic gesture of being cloaked in the national flag - a powerful moment of pride for both the player and the country.

Joining Lesufi on stage during the official press conference in the airport's auditorium were several high-profile dignitaries, including South African Football Association (Safa) president Danny Jordaan and Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos.