South Africa U23 held to draw by Algeria in second friendly

South Africa’s U23 side were held to a 1-1 draw by Algeria in their second international friendly at the Dr Petrus Molemele Stadium on Sunday.

Amagluglug made six changes to the team that started Thursday’s 3-1 victory, including in goal, where Kgoleng Ratisani replaced Fletcher Smythe-Lowe. Mfundo Vilakazi and Tylon Smith were also brought into the starting line-up.

The hosts controlled much of the possession in the opening half, although neither side created many clear opportunities. South Africa registered the first meaningful attempt in the 17th minute, when Neo Rapoo’s set-piece was comfortably gathered by the Algeria goalkeeper.

Kutlwano Letlhaku caused problems for the visitors’ defence and set up Vilakazi in the 28th minute. The Kaizer Chiefs midfielder then struck powerfully from outside the penalty area, but his effort went narrowly wide.

South Africa took the lead three minutes after the half-hour mark. Letlhaku again made an impact from the left, forcing Faiz Belgourai to put the ball into his own net.

Algeria responded almost immediately, restoring parity three minutes later. Benahmed Kohli slid the ball underneath Ratisani to make it 1-1, with the score remaining level at half-time.

Both teams made one change at the interval. Enrique Erasmus replaced Ratisani in the South African goal, while Yanis came on for Kohli for Algeria.

The visitors produced the first attempt of the second half through Karim Boutera, whose shot struck the crossbar. South Africa almost regained the lead a minute later when Rapoo delivered a free-kick, but Siviwe Nkwali headed wide.

Amagluglug then missed another good chance through Obrigado, whose effort was blocked. South Africa continued to apply pressure as they searched for a second goal, but further attempts from Rapoo and Asekho Tiwani were also kept out.

The match was the second meeting between the sides after South Africa won the opening friendly 3-1 on Thursday.

The two fixtures form part of South Africa’s preparations for the 2027 U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. That competition will also serve as a qualifying tournament for the 2028 LA Olympic Games.