New Caledonia have suffered a 5-0 defeat to South Africa in their second Group E match at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, but Pierre Wajoka’s young side showed clear signs of improvement after their opening loss to the USA.

Driven forward by the lively Nolhann Alebate, the Oceania runners-up carved out several opportunities and tested the South African backline. Alebate nearly struck early, firing the first shot of the game in the opening minute and later coming close from a corner in the 21st minute.

Despite that bright start, the African champions made their dominance in possession count. They broke through in the 26th minute when Siviwe Nkwali’s clever flicked header found the net. Eight minutes later, Shakeel April doubled the advantage from the penalty spot after Wadria Hanye’s mistimed challenge. Just before halftime, Siviwe Magidigidi’s blistering pace saw him burst clear and smash home a third past keeper Noa Muller.

RANCAGUA, CHILE – OCTOBER 02: Players of New Caledonia stand for their national anthem prior to the FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 Group E match between South Africa and New Caledonia at Estadio El Teniente on October 02, 2025 in Rancagua, Chile. (Photo by Marcelo Hernandez – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Magidigidi struck again seven minutes into the second half, effectively sealing the contest. New Caledonia nearly found a consolation when Alebate curled a free kick narrowly wide on the hour mark, but South Africa wasn’t done. With ten minutes to play, Lazola Maku produced the goal of the game, a thumping strike from the edge of the area to cap the 5-0 win.

While the scoreline was one-sided, New Caledonia leave the match with plenty of credit for their spirit, resilience, and improved organisation. They will round off their campaign against France on Monday morning (New Caledonia time).

SOUTH AFRICA 5 (Siviwe NKWALI 26’ Shakeel APRIL 34’, Siviwe MAGIDIGIDI 44’, 52’, Lazola MAKU 80’,)

NEW CALEDONIA 0

 HT 3-0