South Africa’s U-17 side, Amajimbos, has made it through to the round of 32 in the ongoing World Cup in Qatar.
Eighteen teams have so far made it, with fellow Africans – Zambia, Senegal and Egypt – also securing their spots.
Amajimbos went down 3-1 to Italy on Sunday. However, they finished second in Group A to progress to the knockout phase.
Senegal, meanwhile, topped the standings in Group C, ahead of Croatia, to book their place.
Zambia came second in Group H behind Brazil, with both countries through to the next round.
Morocco racked up the biggest victory in U-17 World Cup history to keep their hopes alive of progressing to the knockout phase. Spain’s 13-0 win over New Zealand was the previous biggest win, but the Atlas Cubs surpassed that with a 16-0 hammering of New Caledonia.
Morocco finished behind Japan and Portugal in Group B and will now have to wait to see if they qualify as one of the best third-placed sides.
Burkina Faso and Mali are still in a good position to qualify, while Uganda, who are third in Group K, have their backs against the wall.
Qualified teams: South Africa, Zambia, Senegal, Portugal, Argentina, Italy, Brazil, Austria, USA, Ireland, Belgium, Japan, Croatia, Venezuela, Switzerland, Republic of Korea and Korea DPR.
