Amajita midfielder Teboho Mokoena believes there are many lessons that can be taken from their defeat to Italy in the FIFA U-20 World Cup on Wednesday. The defeat has complicated life for the South Africans who were hoping for a win against the Italians to put themselves in a favourable position for a spot in the knockout phases of the tournament. Reflecting on the team’s performance following a disappointing 2-0 loss in their second group match, Mokoena said there is a lot that South Africa can learn. “It’s really disappointing because we came here determined to win the game, but things didn’t go our way. However, I think we played well, but we made some costly mistakes," he said.  "I think we shouldn’t be too harsh on ourselves, because we are still growing and learning the game, so there’s still room to improve.”

A goal from the penalty spot from Riccardo Orsolini and Andrea Favilli’s header ensured a positive result for the Italians. Amajita will play South American champions Uruguay in their final group match. Uruguay has already qualified for the knockout phase following their victory over Japan. Both Italy and Japan have three points. Mokoena only arrived on Monday in South Korea and trained for the first time with the team on Tuesday after helping SuperSport United reach the Nedbank Cup final last weekend. He came on as a substitute, replacing Wiseman Meyiwa in the 60th minute and was happy finally getting to play in the World Cup. “The level in this World Cup is high compared to the U-20 African Nations Cup, but as young players we needed such an experience, so that we can take it back home in South Africa to improve our domestic game,” the midfielder stated. Mokoena is a product of the Harmony Academy who was spotted by Thabo Senong and his technical team playing for Free State in the SAB U-21 championships and Burger King U-19 interprovincial tournament.