The South African Under 20 Men's National Team (Amajita) arrived back in the country today following their first round, first leg African Youth Championship qualifying match against Congo which they narrowly lost two-one (2-1).

But despite going down 2-1 at the Alphonse Massamba Debat Stadium in Brazzaville on Saturday, 28 July 2012, Solly Luvhengo's charges will take heart from their gallant performance in stifling heat.

With an away goal advantage, the South Africans stand a good chance of progressing to the second round. A 1-0 victory will be good enough to send them through to the next stage of the competition.

Amajita were the first to get onto the score sheet when Thabani Mthembu rifled home in the eighth minute. The hosts levelled matters from the penalty spot shortly before the half-time whistle, with the winning goal coming early in the second half.

South Africa Under 20 coach, Luvhengo believes his charges have what it takes to outplay the Congolese in the return leg.

"We scored an early goal but were not able to protect the lead and win the match. We created several good chances to put the issue beyond doubt but were made to pay the heavy penalty for spurning those chances.

"Now that we know how our opponents play, we will be more prepared in the second leg and I remain confident the boys will do the country proud. I believe we will progress to the next round, I have no doubts," said Luvhengo.

The return leg clash will be played on Saturday, 11 August at venue still be confirmed.

The 2013 edition of the U-20 African Youth Championship will be hosted by Algeria.