South Africa’s Under-23 side took a narrow advantage in its Olympic qualifying tie with Madagascar, winning the first leg 1-0 at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville on Saturday.
Substitute Quwan Plaatjies scored the only goal, heading home after a delivery from Neo Rapoo in the second half. The teams went into the break level, with South Africa creating several openings but unable to convert them. Goal.com’s match report noted that Madagascar kept the contest close as the home side pressed for a breakthrough.
The result gives coach Raymond Mdaka’s team a lead to protect in the return leg, scheduled for Tuesday, 17 November, at the same venue. South Africa will need to manage that advantage carefully: a one-goal margin leaves the tie open, while another strong performance in front of goal could ease the pressure.
The fixture forms part of the qualifying route connected to the 2028 Olympic Games. Saturday’s win is an important first step, but it does not settle the two-leg contest. Madagascar will have another opportunity to respond on Tuesday.
Goal.com reported the match result and Plaatjies’ late header, while SABC News also confirmed the 1-0 score and named Plaatjies as the scorer. Sources: Goal.com match report and SABC News. Image credit: Backpage, via Goal.com.