Share

PSL CEO: Let's get behind the U-23s

Cape Town - South Africa's participation in the upcoming U-23 Africa Cup of Nations in Senegal may mean another extended PSL break, but the league's acting CEO Mato Madlala sees the bigger picture.

Madlala has urged South Africans to rally behind the U-23 side as they make the trip to Senegal with the hope of securing a place in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Madlala said the success of the SA U-23 side – which comprises of players from the PSL and National First Division – is important for the entire country.

"On behalf of all the members of the NSL, we would like to wish coach Owen Da Gama and his players the best of luck ahead of what will be a testing campaign," Madlala said.

"We trust that they are prepared for the task that lies ahead. The success of the U-23s is very important for our football as we strive towards reclaiming the number one spot in African football.

"I’m delighted to see that at both club and national team level, our country is now well represented in continental competitions.

"As the PSL, our support for the U23s has not only been lip service. As part of the agreement between the PSL Chairman and SAFA President, we have suspended all Premier Division and National First Division fixtures to ensure that the coach has the full complement of the players he wants to select for this mini tournament."

The top three teams from the eight-team tournament in Senegal will qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE