Eric Mdaka: South African Football Mourns As Raymond Mdaka’s Younger Brother Dies
- Eric Mdaka, 47, passed away at his home in the early hours of Thursday after falling ill, leaving the football community in mourning
- Despite the devastating personal loss, Raymond Mdaka made the decision to be present for South Africa's U23 clash against Algeria in Bloemfontein
- Funeral arrangements are still being finalised, with Eric expected to be laid to rest next weekend in Bolobedu, Tzaneen
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South African football has been plunged into mourning after Eric Mdaka, the younger brother of national U20 and U23 head coach Raymond Mdaka, died on Thursday morning at his home following a sudden illness. He was 47 years old.
The loss has dealt a severe blow to the Mdaka family, prompting an outpouring of condolences from within the football fraternity.
**Raymond Mdaka Takes His Place in the Stands**
In a display of remarkable composure, Raymond chose to honour his professional commitments and watched from the stands as South Africa's U23 side faced Algeria at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein, just hours after receiving the news of his brother's passing.
The young Bafana Bafana squad delivered a commanding performance on the night, claiming a 3-1 victory. The match forms part of the team's preparation programme ahead of their qualification campaign for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
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**Assistant Takes Charge for Remainder of Camp**
With Mdaka stepping back from his coaching duties during this period of bereavement, his assistant Karabo Mogudi has taken over responsibility for the U23 squad for the rest of the current training camp.
Funeral arrangements for Eric have not yet been confirmed, though he is expected to be buried next weekend in Bolobedu, Tzaneen, in Limpopo.
Source: Briefly News
