SAFA Confirms Closed-Door Clash for Banyana Banyana and Madagascar

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has announced that supporters will not be allowed to attend Banyana Banyana’s opening Olympic Games qualifier against Madagascar at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Friday.

In a statement released on Wednesday, SAFA informed the public that the match would be played behind closed doors despite taking place on South African soil. The fixture forms part of the qualification process for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, with Madagascar officially regarded as the host nation for the first leg.

“The South African Football Association (SAFA) would like to inform the public that no spectators will be allowed in the first match of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games qualifiers between Madagascar and Sasol Banyana Banyana on Friday, 9 October 2026,” the association said.

SAFA further explained that the decision was not made by the South African football authorities. “The decision comes following a request made by the visiting team Madagascar, who are the hosts of the first leg Olympic Games qualifier. This match will take place at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein and kicks off at 15h00,” read the statement.

The development means local supporters will be unable to watch Banyana Banyana’s first outing in the qualification campaign from inside the stadium. However, the African champions will still be hoping to secure a positive result ahead of the return fixture.

There is better news for fans hoping to back the national team in person during the second leg. SAFA confirmed that spectators will be welcome at the return match, which will also take place at the Free State Stadium.

The second leg is scheduled for Tuesday, 13 October, with kick-off set for 18:00. The match could prove decisive in determining which side advances in the race to qualify for the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

SAFA has also confirmed that tickets for the second-leg encounter are already on sale through TicketPro. Adult tickets cost R50, while children under the age of 12 can attend for R20. With Banyana Banyana aiming to move a step closer to Olympic qualification, supporters are expected to turn out in large numbers to create a strong home atmosphere in Bloemfontein.

Match Details

Banyana Banyana vs Madagascar
Venue: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein
Date: 13 October 2026
Gates Open: 15:00
Kick-off: 18:00
Tickets: Adults R50 | Children Under 12 R20
Available: TicketPro outlets and online.