Matchday one of the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile wrapped up with heartbreak for Africa’s representatives, South Africa and Nigeria, while the United States and Colombia impressed with commanding wins.

At the Estadio El Teniente in Rancagua, South Africa’s Amajita pushed France all the way but fell 2-1 after conceding a late goal. Anthony Bermont gave France the lead in the 25th minute, but Jody Ahshene equalized from the penalty spot following Kutlwano Letlhaku’s foul in the box. The game looked destined for a draw until Lucas Michel broke South African hearts in the 80th minute with a clinical finish.

Nigeria’s Flying Eagles also suffered defeat, losing 1-0 to Norway at the Estadio Fiscal de Talca. Kparobo Arierhi came close early, rattling the crossbar in the third minute, but Norway capitalized on a ninth-minute penalty, with Rasmus Holten converting what proved to be the winner.

Elsewhere, Colombia opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, thanks to Óscar Perea’s second-half strike from close range after Jordan Barrera’s clever interception.

The USA, however, delivered the most emphatic performance of the day, thrashing New Caledonia 9-1. Benjamin Cremaschi netted a first-half hat-trick, while Niko Tsakiris, Frankie Westfield, Nolan Harris (brace), Taha Habroune, and Cole Campbell all got on the scoresheet. Wapae Simane salvaged a moment of pride for New Caledonia, scoring the nation’s first-ever U-20 World Cup goal in the 70th minute.

Matchday two promises more action, with Panama facing Ukraine and Egypt taking on New Zealand in the early kick-offs, before hosts Chile clash with Japan and South Korea battle Paraguay. Having lost their opener, Egypt will be eager to bounce back and join Morocco as Africa’s only winners so far after their shock triumph over Spain.