South Africa U-23s take narrow Olympic qualifying lead against Madagascar

South Africa’s under-23 side secured a 1-0 first-leg victory over Madagascar in their 2028 Olympic Games qualifying tie at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday.

The result gives Raymond Mdaka’s team a slender advantage ahead of the second leg, which will also be played at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Tuesday. South Africa will be attempting to finish off the second-round tie after a match in which they created several opportunities but were unable to build a more substantial lead.

Mdaka named a strong starting line-up, including players with PSL experience such as Asekho Tiwani, Neo Rapoo, Mfundo Vilakazi and Kutlwano Letlhaku.

The coach also selected three players based outside South Africa. Goalkeeper Fletcher Smythe-Lowe plays for Estoril Praia in Portugal, while Tylon Smith is with New England Revolution FC in the United States and Shandre Campbell represents KV Kortrijk in Belgium.

South Africa made the brighter start and came close to taking the lead when Siviwe Nkwali’s header from a Rapoo corner kick was cleared off the line by a Madagascar defender.

The hosts continued to apply pressure, but Madagascar goalkeeper Christopher Cladec repeatedly kept his side in the contest with a series of important saves.

Cladec denied Campbell, Vilakazi and Thabang Mahlangu as South Africa looked for a breakthrough. The failure to convert more of their chances will be a concern for Mdaka despite the eventual victory.

South Africa finally found the decisive goal in the 74th minute. Stellenbosch FC striker Quwan Plaatjies rose highest inside the penalty area to head past Cladec from another Rapoo corner.

Plaatjies had entered the game on the hour mark, replacing Letlhaku, and made an immediate impact by finishing the move that gave South Africa the lead.

Madagascar were unable to find an equaliser, leaving South Africa to take a narrow advantage into Tuesday’s return fixture. The South African side must now complete the tie at the same venue to progress from the second round of 2028 Olympic Games qualifying.