Camden Schaper (15) is relishing the opportunity to represent South Africa at the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan, determined to make a positive impact for his country while continuing his development as one of England’s exciting young football prospects.

The youth football global showpiece takes place from October 22 to 30, with matches scheduled at Hovsan Competition Complex and Baku Crystal Hall, in Baku.
South Africa is drawn in group A alongside Anguilla, Estonia, France, Kosovo and Maldives in the qualification stage.

Schaper, who made headlines last year with Chelsea and several other Premier League teams reportedly interested in his services, cut his teeth at SuperSport Soccer Schools before moving to England, where he continued his development at Blackburn Rovers.

Now, the Benonian is back home with an opportunity to showcase his talent on the international stage and contribute to South Africa’s World Cup campaign.

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“I am very happy South Africa called me, and I decided to honour the call because it has been a few years since I’ve played South African football,” Schaper said.

“International events like this will definitely help my development, and I am very excited for the World Cup with this team.”

The opportunity has also offered Schaper a different footballing environment from his daily routine in England, allowing him to reconnect with familiar faces while learning from his new teammates and coaches.

“It’s been a nice change from what I’m used to. It’s been good to be back home and see one or two familiar faces. I’m here and excited to learn and grow as a person and as a footballer,” he said.
Schaper believes adapting to different environments is crucial to his development, with the experience of representing South Africa offering valuable lessons both on and off the field.

“Different experiences shape you on and off the field. In competition, you have to find solutions and adapt to what’s in front of you,” he said.

“I’m ready to play my role and shine a light on youth football in South Africa. I’m here to make a positive impact for the team and for the country.”

Despite the excitement of the international opportunity, Schaper remains focused on the hard work required to reach the highest level of the game.

With a strong support team around him in the United Kingdom, the youngster is determined to keep improving at Blackburn as he pursues his Premier League ambitions.

“We will continue the hard work we do weekly because that’s what it takes to get to the Premier League, and that’s what I work for day in and day out,” he said.

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