South Africa delivered a dominant performance at the Free State Stadium, with striker Ronnel Donnelly scoring a hat-trick to put Desiree Ellis’ side in a strong position ahead of Tuesday’s return fixture.
Donnelly shines with a hat-trick
Donnelly opened the scoring in the first half before adding a second goal to give Banyana Banyana a comfortable advantage.
The forward completed her hat-trick after the break, capping an impressive individual display and putting South Africa firmly in control of the tie.
Madagascar conceded a fourth goal late in the match when a defender turned the ball into her own net following an attempt by Hildah Magaia.
South Africa close to the next round
The 4-0 result gives Banyana Banyana a significant advantage going into the second leg, which will take place at the same venue on Tuesday, 13 October.
Madagascar will need a major turnaround to keep their Olympic qualification hopes alive, while South Africa will aim to protect their lead and confirm their progress.
Namibia or Angola await
The winner of the tie is set to face either Namibia or Angola in the next round of the African qualifying campaign.
With a four-goal cushion, Banyana Banyana have put themselves in a strong position as they continue their pursuit of a place at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.