Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane expressed satisfaction with his team's 2-1 win against Guinea in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) Group D opener. The match, played at Orlando Stadium, marked Mosimane's return to the national team for his second stint. The team's performance was characterized by a new plan that came together, with some players trying unusual roles. Mosimane attributed the win to the team's mentality, fight, and pressure on the opponent.
The match saw Kamogelo Sebelebele named man-of-the-match, earning his fourth international cap. He put in a restrained attacking display, different from his overlapping right-back role at Orlando Pirates. Relebohile Mofokeng, a former Buccaneer, displayed confidence from his introduction to European club football at Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Mofokeng buzzed at playmaker, while Iqraam Rayners worked hard pressurizing defenders at striker.
Olwethu Makhanya, who missed out at centreback under Mosimane's predecessor at the World Cup, took advantage of Mbekezeli Mbokazi's injury absence to stake a claim. Makhanya wrapped up Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy. Mosimane was happy with the interplay of stalwart left-back Aubrey Modiba coming inside to playmaker in attack. Modiba's role change allowed Oswin Appollis to go wide more, an unusual position for the winger.
The match saw Norway-based Samukele Kabini come off the bench and score a 77th-minute winner. This was after Seydouba Cisse's 69th-minute equaliser for Guinea. Mosimane felt the win was deserved on balance of play. He highlighted the team's creation of opportunities, including many free-kicks and corners in the first half.
Mosimane expressed satisfaction with the team's mentality, stating that they want to play, fight, and press. He gave respect to Guinea, describing them as a quality team with tricky wingers. Mosimane was happy for Makhanya to have started, creating opportunities for players. He also praised Ime Okon and Makhanya for their defensive performance against Guirassy.
Mosimane will still be feeling out his squad and players' capabilities close up. He explained that he might ask players to perform different roles to what their club supporters and coaches have become accustomed to. Mosimane discussed his tactical decisions, including spurring Kabini to get down the line more and Sebelebele's restrained attacking display.
Bafana Bafana have another tricky encounter against Eritrea in Cairo on Wednesday. A win will leave them in a strong position in their Afcon qualifying campaign. Mosimane emphasized the importance of keeping their feet on the ground and not getting too excited after the first game. The team's performance has shown promise, and Mosimane will look to build on this momentum.
Key points
- Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane pleased with team's performance in 2-1 win against Guinea
- Mosimane happy with team's mentality, fight, and pressure on opponent
- Team's new plan and role changes contributed to the win
