South Africa Under-23s take narrow first-leg lead over Madagascar

South Africa’s Under-23 side secured a 1-0 victory against Madagascar in their CAF Under-23 Africa Cup of Nations first-leg qualifier at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Raymond Mdaka’s team will take a slender advantage into Tuesday’s return match after a second-half header from captain Neo Rapoo’s corner settled a closely contested game.

South Africa created the first clear opportunity after nine minutes. Thabang Mahlangu found space at the near post after being picked out by Kutlwano Letlhaku, but he lifted his effort over the crossbar.

Letlhaku then had an opportunity of his own to open the scoring. Shandre Campbell delivered a well-weighted ball towards the far side of the area, but the Mamelodi Sundowns striker was unable to make proper contact.

Madagascar responded by putting the South African defence under sustained pressure and asking questions in the final third. However, the visitors regained control, with Mahlangu cutting in from the near side before sending a low effort narrowly wide.

The Islanders made an energetic start to the second half, with Patricio influential in the attacking areas. His third-man runs caused South Africa problems as the hosts looked to build momentum.

Mdaka responded by making three changes midway through the second half, bringing on Thato Sibiya, Nhlanhla Gasa and Quwan Plaatjies in a triple substitution.

The changes gave South Africa greater attacking intent and they came close to breaking the deadlock when Plaatjies met a precise cross with a header inside the area. Madagascar were forced to produce an excellent goal-line clearance to keep the score level.

South Africa continued to apply pressure and finally found the breakthrough with 10 minutes remaining. Neo Rapoo’s accurately delivered corner found Plaatjies, who rose to head the ball into the top corner.

Plaatjies almost added a second two minutes from time when he attempted a first-time finish from the far side of the area. His effort was kept out, but South Africa held on to claim the win and an important advantage before Tuesday’s second leg.