Bafana Bafana started their 2027 Afcon qualifiers on a high note, beating Guinea 2-1 at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday. Coach Pitso Mosimane made his ideal start in his second stint with the team, despite a nervy performance. The team showed character and a never-say-die attitude, coming from behind to secure the win. Mosimane made several changes to the team, and it was evident that the players were still adapting to his philosophy.
The match got off to a lively start, with Ime Okon scoring the opening goal for Bafana Bafana. However, the team struggled to maintain possession, allowing Guinea to create some nervy moments in defence. Okon's performance was a highlight, but he was also guilty of making a dangerous tackle in front of goal, conceding a free-kick and picking up a yellow card. Despite this, Mosimane will be happy with Okon's display and goal.
Relebohile Mofokeng had a flawless first half, but lacked support from the rest of the team. Oswin Appollis tried to find spaces but couldn't penetrate Guinea's defence. Mosimane highlighted that Appollis must do better defensively at times and not simply stay up front. The team's uncertainty was evident, with Kamogelo Sebelebele struggling to decide whether to push forward or stay back during build-up.
Guinea equalised, but Bafana Bafana showed their character and a never-say-die attitude as they went in search of the winner. Captain Ronwen Williams played a key role, cajoling the fans to get behind the team. The team's mojo was found as Samukelo Kabini scored the winner in the 77th minute. Kabini's cameo was impressive, and he made a significant impact on the game.
Williams reminded everyone why he has arguably been Bafana's greatest captain of all time. Apart from making a blinding save in the first half, Williams continued to hype up the fans and encourage them to rally behind the team. Sphephelo Sithole also impressed, reminding everyone why he was one of the team's best midfielders at the 2023 Afcon before injury halted his progress.
The result gives Mosimane and his players something to build on, but Wednesday's meeting with Eritrea in Cairo should provide another indication of how quickly this new-look Bafana can find its identity. Mosimane's second stint as coach has started positively, but there is still much work to be done. The team is very much in transition, and some effective qualities of the play came to the fore, helping the team start their qualifying campaign on a high.
The win over Guinea has given Bafana Bafana a boost, and they will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches. Mosimane will be encouraged by the team's character and determination, but will also be aware of the areas that need improvement. The team's performance was not perfect, but it was a positive start to their 2027 Afcon qualifying campaign.
Key points
- Bafana Bafana began their 2027 Afcon qualifiers with a 2-1 win over Guinea at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.
- Coach Pitso Mosimane made his ideal start in his second stint with the team, despite a nervy performance.
- The team showed character and a never-say-die attitude, coming from behind to secure the win.
