Raymond Mdaka’s U23s had to play a very patient game. A late goal decided the result after failing to convert several promising opportunities during an entertaining encounter.

South Africa delivered attacking purpose from the opening stages. Sekhukhune United striker Thabang Mahlangu was gifted with the opportunity to put his team ahead just nine minutes into the contest but failed to punish the visitors.

U23 COACH RAYMOND MDAKA MAKES THREE CHANGES

Soon after Mahlangu’s miss was another wasted opportunity. This time it was Mamelodi Sundowns‘ Letlhaku missing the target.

He found himself in a promising position after Shandre Campbell delivered an inviting ball towards the far post. Unfortunately, he could not find the finish required to reward the move.

Madagascar gradually grew into the contest and began testing the South African defensive structure.

Their attacking threat increased after the restart, with Patricio particularly influential in forward areas. His movements and third-man runs caused problems for Mdaka’s defence.

South Africa needed a response, and Mdaka turned to his bench during the second half.

The coach introduced Thato Sibiya, Nhlanhla Gasa and Quwan Plaatjies in a triple substitution as he attempted to change the direction of the contest.

The changes brought renewed energy to the visitors’ attacking play.

Plaatjies immediately made his presence felt, rising to meet a dangerous delivery inside the penalty area. His header looked destined for the net before Madagascar produced an excellent goal-line clearance.

However, South Africa continued pushing for an opener rather than settling for a draw.

Mahlangu had also threatened earlier in the match when he cut inside from the near side before sending an effort narrowly wide.

QUWAN PLAATJIES SETTLES THE CONTEST

The breakthrough finally arrived during the closing ten minutes, with captain Neo Rapoo providing the decisive delivery.

Rapoo produced an accurate corner-kick that found Plaatjies inside the area. The substitute made no mistake with his header, sending the ball into the top of the net to give South Africa the advantage.

The goal rewarded Mdaka’s decision to introduce fresh attacking options and gave the visitors an important result heading into the return fixture.

Plaatjies nearly doubled his contribution two minutes before the final whistle when he attempted a first-time effort from the far side of the penalty area.

Madagascar managed to keep the scoreline at 1-0, but South Africa had done enough to secure victory. Mdaka’s side will now look to complete the job in the second leg on Tuesday.

The narrow advantage leaves South Africa with work still to do, but they will take confidence from their ability to find a breakthrough after struggling to convert earlier opportunities.

The return encounter will determine whether the young South African side can progress in the CAF U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.