Peace Mabe

MEDIA STATEMENT Deputy Minister Peace Mabe to join fans in support of Banyana Banyana Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Ms Peace Mabe, will on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, join football supporters at Toyota Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein as Banyana Banyana take on Madagascar in the second leg of their Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games qualifying tie. Kick-off is at 18h00. With Banyana Banyana looking to build on their commanding first-leg victory over Madagascar, South Africa go into the second leg with a four-goal advantage. The team secured a 4–0 win on Friday, 9 October 2026, with Ronnel Donnelly scoring three goals and an own goal by Madagascar completing the scoring. The Deputy Minister commended the players and technical team for a strong opening performance that placed South Africa in a favourable position ahead of the second leg. She said the team’s attacking display and clean sheet provided a solid foundation, while emphasising the importance of maintaining focus as Banyana seek to secure their place in the next round. “Banyana Banyana delivered an impressive performance in the first leg. Ronnel Donnelly’s three goals were an outstanding contribution, supported by the collective effort of the team. We commend the players and technical team for this result and wish them well as they prepare to complete the tie on Tuesday,” said Deputy Minister Mabe. The Deputy Minister said her attendance would be an opportunity to join South Africans in showing their appreciation for the team and backing their pursuit of Olympic qualification. She called on football supporters in Bloemfontein and surrounding communities to come out in their national colours and create a strong atmosphere of support at the stadium. “Our players carry the pride of South Africa every time they step onto the pitch. On Tuesday, we have an opportunity to show them that the nation is behind them. I look forward to joining supporters in Bloemfontein to cheer on Banyana Banyana as they work towards the next round of qualification,” said Deputy Minister Mabe. The Deputy Minister said Banyana Banyana’s performances continue to inspire young women and girls who aspire to represent South Africa in sport. She added that this inspiration must be supported by opportunities for girls to play football in schools and communities, access coaching and develop their talent through competitive participation. “Behind every national team player is a journey that begins with an opportunity to play. As we celebrate Banyana Banyana, we must also encourage the next generation of girls to take up football and support their development. We stand behind the players, coaches and support staff and wish them every success in Tuesday’s match,” concluded Deputy Minister Mabe. Media enquiries Ms Getrude Mamabolo |Office of the Deputy Minister |Department of Sport, Arts and Culture |Cell: 076 208 8133 | Email: [email protected] Ms Zimasa Velaphi |Head of Communication and Marketing |Cell: 072 172 8925 |Email: [email protected] ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE