Bafana Bafana secured a 1-0 win over Egypt in a friendly international match at Cairo International Stadium on Sunday. The team completed a perfect international camp with three wins from three matches, including back-to-back 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying wins over Guinea and Eritrea. President Cyril Ramaphosa was among the dignitaries watching from the stands, having earlier visited the Bafana camp and met with the players.
Puso Dithejane scored the decisive goal on his Bafana debut, opening his senior international account in the process. The 22-year-old Chicago Fire winger showed persistence and composure to steal the ball off a scramble between defender and goalkeeper before slotting into an empty net in the 51st minute. This goal separated the sides, as South Africa remained organised and competitive against the Egyptians.
The victory provided Pitso Mosimane's side with a perfect return from their September-October international window. Mosimane had made wholesale changes following Wednesday's 5-0 demolition of Eritrea, rotating heavily and giving several players the chance to stake their claim against one of Africa's heavyweight nations. The changes did little to disrupt South Africa's performance.
For Dithejane, it was a dream introduction to international football, as he scored the goal that secured victory over Egypt. This also provided Mosimane with another positive selection headache, with several players given opportunities during the friendly after others had impressed in the AFCON qualifiers. Relebohile Mofokeng had scored twice against Eritrea, while Oswin Appollis provided three assists.
Ramaphosa's presence was notable, as he visited the Bafana camp and was welcomed by SAFA president Dr Danny Jordaan and Mosimane before being introduced to the players. He later made his way to the Cairo International Stadium, joining other heads of state and dignitaries to watch the friendly. The Egypt match gave Mosimane the opportunity to test his squad against a top opponent.
Bafana Bafana now leave Cairo with three victories, eight goals scored, and just one conceded across the camp - a perfect return as Mosimane continues to shape his squad. The team's performance against Egypt was particularly notable, given the opponent's status as one of Africa's leading teams. This friendly match provided valuable experience for the players.
The result and performance will provide encouragement for Mosimane as he continues to build his team. The coach will be pleased with the contributions of players like Dithejane, Mofokeng, and Appollis, who have all made an impact in recent matches. The team's perfect international camp will give them confidence heading into their next matches.
Key points
- Bafana Bafana completed a perfect international camp with three wins from three matches.
- Puso Dithejane scored the decisive goal on his Bafana debut.
- The team's performance against Egypt provided valuable experience and encouragement for Pitso Mosimane.
