Raymond Mdaka Blends Local and Overseas Talent in SA U23 Preliminary Squad
South Africa U23 head coach Raymond Mdaka has named his preliminary squad for the upcoming U23 Africa Cup of Nations and Olympic Games qualifiers against Madagascar. The selected players will assemble for a training camp from 9 to 18 November 2026 as preparations begin for the crucial qualifying fixtures.
The squad features a strong blend of locally based talent and South African players currently plying their trade abroad, highlighting the growing depth available to the national youth setup. The camp will provide Mdaka and his technical team with an opportunity to assess players before finalising the squad for the two-legged tie.
In the goalkeeping department, Mdaka has selected Fletcher Smythe-Lowe of Estoril Praia, Takalani Mazhamba from Kaizer Chiefs, unattached goalkeeper Enrique Erasmus and Orlando Pirates shot-stopper Kgoleng Ratisani. The four goalkeepers will battle for places in the final squad.
The defensive unit includes Orlando Pirates defender Neo Rapoo, Stellenbosch FC pair Luthando Vena and Siviwe Nkwali, Hope FC’s Moses Mphekgoane, Kruger United’s Asekho Tiwani and Cape Town City defender Cayden Fortune. TS Galaxy’s Oupa Motaung, Tylon Smith of New England Revolution, Thato Sibiya of LOSC Lille, Waylon Renecke of Hammarby IF, Amahle Mkhabela of Richards Bay and Lucas Jetten of SC Cambuur complete the defensive selections.
Mdaka has also assembled an exciting midfield group led by Orlando Pirates duo Camren Dansin and Simphiwe Selepe, Kaizer Chiefs playmaker Mfundo Vilakazi and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Gomolemo Kekana. They are joined by Cape Town City’s Dhakier Lee, Gabriel Amato and Emile Witbooi, Durban City’s Lumphumlo Sifumba and unattached midfielder Lazola Maku.
Several players in the squad have already gained valuable first-team experience in the Betway Premiership, while others continue to develop their careers in Europe and the United States. Their exposure to different football environments is expected to benefit the national side during the qualification campaign.
The attacking department is packed with talent, including Kaizer Chiefs trio Faiz Abrahams, Luke Baartman and Langelihle Phili. Mamelodi Sundowns forwards Bennet Mokoena and Kutlwano Letlhaku have also earned call-ups, while Orlando Pirates attackers Mpho Padime and Bohlale Ngwato are included alongside Golden Arrows forward Nhlanhla Gasa, Stellenbosch FC youngster Quwan Plaatjies and University of Pretoria striker Cassidy Snyders.
The squad’s international flavour is further strengthened by the inclusion of Siviwe Magidigidi of Belgian outfit Beerschot VA and Shandre Campbell of KV Kortrijk. Their experience in European football could prove valuable as South Africa looks to progress to the next stage of the competition.
The two nations will meet in a two-legged second-round qualifier, with both matches set to be played at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville, Pretoria. Madagascar will host the first leg on Wednesday, 14 November, at 15h00, while the reverse fixture is scheduled for Saturday, 17 November, with kickoff set for 20h00.
With a place at the U23 Africa Cup of Nations and a pathway to Olympic Games qualification at stake, Mdaka’s young charges will be eager to make the most of the training camp and stake their claim for selection. South Africa will be hoping this talented group can take a major step towards continental and international qualification when they face Madagascar, while tickets for the home match are expected to go on sale soon.
