Refiloe Jane says Banyana Banyana must ease Olympic pressure against Madagascar

Banyana Banyana captain Refiloe Jane believes victory in the first leg of their 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games qualifying tie against Madagascar would reduce the pressure before the return match.

The teams will contest both first-round matches in Bloemfontein, with South Africa hosting the fixtures after Madagascar confirmed they do not have a suitable venue. The second leg is scheduled for 13 October.

Jane expects a demanding tie but says South Africa are prepared for the challenge of a lengthy qualification campaign.

“It is important that in the first leg we perform well and get the important result. We are at a point where we don’t want to put ourselves under pressure,” Jane said.

“We know we have not qualified for the Olympics in a long time and understand that the journey to qualifying is a long one. The first leg will ease the pressure going into the second leg, but we take it one game at a time.”

South Africa are seeking a return to the Olympics for the first time since the 2016 Games in Brazil.

Jane said participation in major international competitions would benefit both the players and the wider development of women’s football in the country. She added that the team’s immediate priority was the Olympic qualifying campaign before turning its attention to the World Cup qualifiers.

“We know that when we play in big tournaments, it opens more doors for the players. There is room for recognition and the development of women’s football in our country,” she said.

“So we first focus on the LA Olympic Qualifiers and then move on to the World Cup Qualifiers.”

The first leg is set to be played behind closed doors after Madagascar requested that the match take place without supporters in attendance.

Jane has nevertheless called on Banyana Banyana fans to continue backing the national team as they begin their bid to reach the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

“My message to all our fans – please show your love for the national team. The team is focused and wants to deliver,” she said.