Smythe-Lowe Credits Estoril First-Team Promotion For SA U23 Call-Up

Fletcher Smythe-Lowe believes his promotion to Estoril Praia’s first team has prepared him for his first South Africa U23 opportunity after years of learning and hard work.

The 19-year-old goalkeeper was promoted to the Estoril Praia first team ahead of the 2026/27 Liga Portugal season after previously playing for the club’s reserve side.

Although Smythe-Lowe is yet to make his first-team debut, he has been included in the Matchday squad for three games this season, giving him valuable experience of being around senior football.

The 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations Goalkeeper of the Tournament is now looking to take another important step in his career after being included in the South Africa U23 squad.

The young goalkeeper was speaking ahead of South Africa’s international friendly against Algeria in Bloemfontein on Thursday, as the team prepares for the qualifiers for the 2028 Summer Olympics in the United States.

Smythe-Lowe believes his experience of training and working with the first team in Portugal has helped him understand the demands of senior football and prepared him for his first U23 call-up.

“Yeah, obviously, being around first teams all over the world comes with a different responsibility and a different level of discipline,” he said.

“You have to put in the work every single day and really work hard.

“And I think me being here, as well as the other players, really shows that we’ve worked really hard, and it’s just a testament to everybody’s work ethic and dedication.”

Smythe-Lowe also believes his confidence has not only come from his recent promotion to the first team, but from the years of experience and learning he has gained throughout his development.

The goalkeeper says working with different players has helped him learn different aspects of the game and given him the confidence to contribute at international level.

“I mean, obviously, you get confidence from that, but it’s not just that,” he added.

“You know, you gain confidence from years of work, playing with different players, learning different things from different players and from your teammates.

“And I think this obviously is a good step for me in my career, and now I feel confident that I can come to the national team and give something to help everyone. But yeah, I think it’s a great opportunity.”