Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane endured a rollercoaster return to the team as they overcame moments of gloom to edge Guinea 2-1 in Soweto. The match, which marked the beginning of their AFCON group-stage qualification campaign, got off to a slow start, with the stadium largely empty and only a handful of supporters present. However, the atmosphere transformed during Bafana's rendition of the South African national anthem, as supporters joined in, singing in full voice to cheer the team.
Mosimane, dressed in a black and grey suit, was relaxed on the touchline, largely strolling with his arms folded and soaking everything in. His opposite number, Paulo Duarte, was a stark contrast, pacing up and down the technical area like a man possessed. The fact that Guinea were second-best to Bafana in the early stages frustrated Duarte, who had played every mind game in the book during the build-up.
Relebohile Mofokeng, the 21-year-old midfielder, returned to his old stomping ground waving a magic wand, showcasing his growth since moving to Belgium in the summer. His joyous play brought smiles to the masses and mixed reactions from Mosimane, who was either shell-shocked by every missed chance or applauding every tackle won and ball recovered.
Ime Okon continued to endear himself to South African football, opening his account in the first half to give Bafana the lead. The hollow, gloomy stadium Mosimane had painfully walked onto transformed into a warm, bright home with fans chanting his name, to which he responded with a salute. Kamogelo Sebelebele, a local son, struggled at right-back initially but redeemed himself and duly walked away with the Player of the Match award.
The second half demonstrated how a blend of continuity and fresh perspective could help the team moving forward. Bafana started at a slow pace, allowing Guinea acres of time and space, and were duly punished when Seydouba Cisse scored the equaliser. Instead of burying their heads in self-pity, Bafana showed a never-say-die attitude, with Ronwen Williams cajoling the fans to get behind the team immediately after conceding.
A tactical substitution bringing on Samukelo Kabini for Aubrey Modiba proved to be a masterstroke. The left-back grabbed the opportunity with both hands, pacing up and down the flank and recovering the ball with ease. He was duly rewarded, scoring Bafana's winner late in the second half to bring calm and comfort to Mosimane, who gratefully embraced him.
Mosimane and his troops will now turn their focus to Eritrea on Wednesday in Egypt, where he hopes the sun will continue to shine on their campaign. There were shades of grey in his team's performance, but light had prevailed, setting the stage for a strong run to the finals. Yanela Mbuthuma also made a cameo appearance at a familiar ground to rapturous applause that enlivened the contest.
Key points
- Bafana Bafana beat Guinea 2-1 in their AFCON group-stage qualification campaign opener.
- Relebohile Mofokeng and Samukelo Kabini made key contributions to the team's victory.
- Pitso Mosimane's team will now face Eritrea on Wednesday in Egypt.
