South Africa, who are African champions, fell behind early on but an own goal from United States defender Joshua Wynder and a winner via Gomolemo Kekana gave them the victory that booked second place in their pool, ahead of France.
“Firstly, let me congratulate the boys. Honestly, they did a very good job,” Mdaka said. “They showed character, they showed that they are African champions. Playing against the USA, who had already won two games by big margins, looked like a mountain to climb. But as a team we agreed, let’s show what we can do together. I’m happy because we showed that character.
“We scored in the first half, and then had to manage the second half under real pressure. They came at us hard, but we maintained our shape and managed the game tactically. That kind of discipline and character is very important for any team.
“Credit to the boys, the technical team, and the support staff, the atmosphere they create gives the players energy, and that spirit carried us through to the next stage.”
Mdaka says he is grateful for the wide support the side has received from South Africa, and adds his side have kept their promises.
“One thing I truly appreciate is the support we’re getting from home. Even though we are far away, it feels like the whole country is behind us. Before we left, people said it was a difficult group, and it was. But we promised the country we would give everything we have, and that’s what these players have done.
“The unity in this team is a blessing. We work together, from COSAFA to AFCON and now here, we keep showing the same spirit and togetherness that a national team should have. That unity is what keeps us strong.”
Mdaka admits the goal on arrival in Chile was to get out of the group stages, but they now face a Colombia side who have not exactly lit up the tournament to date, and who took five points from a possible nine in the pool phase but topped Group F.
“Our immediate goal is to go beyond the group stage. From here on, we don’t play for draws, we play for results. We’ll continue with the same character and the same fighting spirit. We want to show that we are South Africa, and we are here to compete.”