South Africa under-20 head coach Thabo Senong was in charge of the team, while Bafana legend Helman Mkhalele served as his assistant. The last time South Africa and Botswana met was at the 2016 Cosafa Cup in Namibia. Bafana beat the Zebras 3-2 in the final to clinch their fourth title. Kenya are set to host the 2018 Chan finals between 11 January and 2 February. DR Congo will be the defending champions.
