U20 World Cup: What starting XI for South Africa against New Caledonia?

South Africa will face New Caledonia this Thursday, October 3 at 11:00 pm GMT at Estadio El Teniente for the second matchday of Group E in the 2025 U20 World Cup.

After a 2-1 defeat to France on opening day, South Africa has no choice but to secure a win against the group’s underdog, who suffered a heavy 9-1 loss to the United States in their first match.

Also read: 2025 U20 World Cup: The full schedule for the first round

Here is the probable South Africa starting XI in a 4-2-3-1 formation: Lowe – Smith, Tiwani, Nkwali, Rapoo – Kekena, Maku – April, Lethaku, Phili – Shene.

The African representatives are not expected to face many problems overcoming a New Caledonian side that was thoroughly dismantled by the United States (9-1) in the opening round of the group stage.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.