South Africa U-23 held to draw by Algeria before Madagascar qualifiers

South Africa’s U-23 side were held to a 1-1 draw by Algeria at the Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday, ending their hopes of completing a clean sweep in their two-match friendly series.

Raymond Mdaka’s team had beaten the North Africans 3-1 on Thursday, but were unable to repeat that result in their final preparation match before next month’s U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar.

The hosts started positively and looked to impose themselves during the opening 15 minutes. Neo Rapoo came closest to breaking the deadlock early on when he struck a free-kick from the edge of the penalty area, but his effort failed to find the target.

South Africa continued to enjoy the greater momentum and took the lead shortly after the half-hour mark, although the goal came through an unfortunate mistake by their opponents.

Kutlwano Letlhaku’s cutback caused confusion in the Algeria defence, with Faiz Belgouirai inadvertently turning the ball into his own net.

Algeria responded almost immediately with their first attack of the match. Benhamed Kohli was left unmarked at the far post before finishing confidently to bring the visitors level.

Algeria threaten after the break

Mdaka made an early change at half-time after Kaizer Chiefs forward Luke Baartman picked up a knock. He was replaced by Stellenbosch FC striker Quwan Plaatjies.

The Fennec Foxes began the second half strongly and went close to taking the lead five minutes after the restart.

Karim Boutera carried the ball forward from several yards inside his own half, used his shoulder to create space and then unleashed a powerful strike which crashed against the crossbar.

South Africa regained control soon afterwards and began to press for a second goal. Mfundo Vilakazi cut in from the far side and managed to get a shot away from a tight angle, but Algeria goalkeeper Yasser Zitouni made the save.

The hosts came closest to winning the match in the final 10 minutes. A second phase of play from a set-piece fell to Kaizer Chiefs winger Faiz Abrahams, whose low, powerful effort in the penalty area appeared destined for the net.

However, the strike was cleared off the goal-line, ensuring the match finished level in Bloemfontein.