Mdaka Announces U23 Squad

South Africa Under-23 head coach Raymond Mdaka has officially announced his final 24-man squad for the upcoming two-legged Olympic Games qualifiers against Madagascar, with several exciting young talents from the Premier Soccer League earning opportunities to represent the country.

The announcement marks an important step in Amaglug-glug’s preparations as they continue their journey towards qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Mdaka has assembled a promising group of locally based and overseas-based footballers, combining young players with senior-team experience and emerging talents looking to establish themselves on the international stage.

The two encounters against Madagascar are scheduled for 14 and 17 November 2026, with both matches set to take place at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville.

One of the biggest talking points is the inclusion of Belgium-based winger Shandre Campbell, who has recently attracted attention through his involvement with the senior Bafana Bafana setup.

Campbell was part of the senior national team’s recent preparations and provided the assist for Puso Dithejane’s winning goal in South Africa’s 1-0 friendly victory over Egypt.

His inclusion gives Mdaka another exciting attacking option, particularly considering the youngster’s pace, creativity and ability to create opportunities in dangerous areas.

Orlando Pirates will be particularly pleased with the strong representation of their emerging players in the national selection.

The Buccaneers have several promising youngsters, including goalkeeper Kgoleng Ratisani, midfielder Camren Dansin, Simphiwe Selepe and forward Mpho Padime.

Kaizer Chiefs also have reasons to celebrate, with Mfundo Vilakazi, Faiz Abrahams and Luke Baartman among the selected players.

Mamelodi Sundowns youngsters, including Gomolemo Kekana, Bennet Mokoena and Kutlwano Letlhaku, will also have an opportunity to showcase their abilities.

Other clubs, including Stellenbosch FC, Cape Town City and Golden Arrows, are represented, demonstrating the depth of emerging football talent in South Africa.

South Africa must successfully navigate the qualifying rounds to reach the 2027 CAF Under-23 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, which will serve as the continental qualification tournament for the Olympic Games.

Mdaka will therefore expect his players to demonstrate discipline, determination and consistency across both encounters.

South Africa recently gained valuable preparation through two friendlies against Algeria, winning the first 3-1 before drawing the second 1-1.

For the selected youngsters, this is an opportunity to represent their country and strengthen their ambitions of eventually becoming regular members of the senior national team.

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