South Africa U23 rally to beat Algeria and showcase depth

With head coach Raymond Mdaka absent following a family bereavement, South Africa controlled large parts of the opening half and created opportunities, but failed to turn their dominance into goals. Algeria made them pay for that, with Yanis Senhadji putting the visitors ahead before the break with one of their few clear chances.

The hosts responded after the interval, with Mogudi’s changes making an immediate impact. All three substitutes: Quwan Plaatjies, Nhlanhla Gasa and Faiz Abrahams, found the back of the net to complete the turnaround at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium on Thursday afternoon.

Mogudi says while the result is encouraging, the performance has also highlighted areas the team still needs to improve ahead of Sunday’s second meeting.

"Winning 3-1 does not mean we will not look at areas we need to improve on, but generally I think the boys did well. They applied themselves properly in both halves, it's just that we couldn't finish the chances we created in the first half, but in the second half we changed a few things and those boys did the business. We are happy with these friendlies because they will prepare us for a vital qualifier against Madagascar, and this match showed once again the amazing talent we have."

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Mogudi was encouraged by the way South Africa approached the first half, despite their inability to finish the chances they created. He says the groundwork for the eventual comeback was already laid before the interval, particularly in the way the players occupied attacking positions.

Mogudi has labelled this group of players ‘Mentality Monsters’, a reflection of their ability to respond when matches do not go according to plan. He says the continuity within the squad has also helped, with many of the players having progressed through the national U17 and U20 teams together.

He believes that familiarity has strengthened the atmosphere in camp and helped create a group that remains composed and determined even when faced with difficult moments during a match.

South Africa U23 will face Algeria again on Sunday in the second of their two international friendlies at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium. Kick-off is at 15h00.