Neo Rapoo cross earns South Africa U23 first-leg win over Madagascar

South Africa Under 23 secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Madagascar in the first leg of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Sunday afternoon.

Neo Rapoo’s cross was headed in by substitute Quwan Plaatjies in the 73rd minute, giving Raymond Mdaka’s side a valuable advantage ahead of Tuesday evening’s second leg.

Mdaka returned to the touchline after missing South Africa’s two friendlies against Algeria last month following a family bereavement. Assistant coach Karabo Mogudi had taken charge of the team for those matches.

Belgium-based Shandre Campbell was restored to the starting line-up and came close to opening the scoring inside the first five minutes. His powerful free-kick forced a save from the Madagascar goalkeeper.

South Africa controlled possession from the start, with Madagascar adopting a defensive approach and allowing their opponents to dictate the game. The hosts offered little threat on the counter-attack, leaving South Africa largely untroubled at the back.

Despite their dominance, South Africa struggled to turn possession into clear chances. Thabang Mahlangu had two promising opportunities late in the first half, but failed to make the most of the time and space available to him inside the box.

The pattern continued after the interval, with Madagascar showing no indication that they intended to change their approach. Mdaka responded by making a triple substitution on the hour, bringing on Thato Sibiya, Quwan Plaatjies and Nhlanhla Gasa.

The changes eventually produced the breakthrough. Only minutes after having an earlier header cleared off the line, Plaatjies rose above his marker to meet Rapoo’s delivery and direct his header into the net.

South Africa pressed for a second goal during the closing stages but could not extend their lead. Mpho Padime had an opportunity in second-half stoppage time, although he sent his effort over the crossbar.

The single goal proved enough to secure victory in the opening leg, leaving South Africa to complete the tie in the return fixture on Tuesday evening.