By The South African Football Association (SAFA) has expressed profound sorrow following the passing of Eric Mdaka, the younger brother of South African Under-20 and Under-23 men’s national team coach, Raymond Mdaka.
Eric, 47, passed away at home in the early hours of Thursday after falling ill. Funeral arrangements are currently underway, with his final resting place anticipated to be in Bolobedu, Tzaneen, Limpopo, next weekend.
Despite receiving the devastating news ahead of the fixture, Coach Raymond Mdaka displayed immense professionalism and resilience. Opting to watch from the stands at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein, he observed his side secure a 3-1 victory over Algeria in an international friendly. The match serves as a crucial building block in SAFA’s preparations on the road to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
In light of the family bereavement, assistant coach Karabo Mogudi has stepped in to manage the team and will oversee the remainder of the U-23 training camp. Mogudi actively directed proceedings from the bench during Thursday’s encounter.
SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan led the football fraternity in offering heartfelt condolences to the Mdaka family during this testing period.
“Our sincere condolences to our coach Raymond Mdaka and his entire family on the sad loss of his younger brother,” said Dr Jordaan. “We express our shared sorrow on his loss. May God grant the family comfort and healing during this difficult time. May his departed soul rest in eternal peace.”
The entire national association and the broader football community stand in solidarity with coach Raymond and his loved ones, offering thoughts and prayers for strength and comfort as they navigate their loss.
