Amajita midfielder Grant Margeman says that scoring South Africa’s opening goal at the Fifa U20 World Cup was heaven on earth. 

The 18-year-old opened Amajita’s World Cup account when he made his way into the area before firing a shot into the back of the net, as the national team suffered a 2-1 defeat against Japan in their Group D opener.

The South African National Team went on to suffer one more defeat, against Italy, before playing to a goalless draw against Uruguay in their final group stage encounter.

Margeman has described his goal as a moment he will never forget as he looks back at his breakthrough season with the South African U20 squad.

“It was amazing to be part of the squad that took part in the World Cup, scoring that goal felt absolutely amazing, finding the back of the net at what is the biggest level in our age group,” said Margeman at Ikamva on Tuesday.

“In all, it was just an amazing experience, playing against players who compete at the top level, players who play for big clubs, but yes, just disappointed that we had to return home so early.

“It would have been much better if we had reached the knockout stages at least.”

The Ajax Cape Town midfielder insists that participating in the U20 World Cup was a learning experience not only for him, but his teammates Masilake Phohlongo, Shane Saralina and Sirgio Kammies.

“After they scored their second goal we woke up, we started playing and creating chances, but we just couldn’t score,” he added.

“If you don’t take your chances these type of teams will punish you, they are all technically good.

“The whole tournament was a learning curve for us as South Africans, you can’t afford to lose concentration for a single moment. Also, importantly, you have to take your chances when they come.”

Photo: EPA/KIM HEE-CHUL

— This story originally appeared on SportsClub.co.za