Bafana Bafana secured a convincing 5-0 victory over Eritrea at the Al Salam Stadium in Egypt, maintaining their perfect start in Group D of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Relebohile Mofokeng, an Orlando Pirates Academy product now playing in Belgium, delivered a standout performance, scoring twice. His impressive display helped South Africa dominate the match. The win marked Bafana Bafana's second consecutive victory in the qualifiers.
Mofokeng opened the scoring in the 19th minute, showcasing composure as he slotted past the Eritrea goalkeeper after being played through on goal by Oswin Appollis. The 21-year-old had previously come close to scoring when he hit the upright. His second goal came in first-half stoppage time, as he collected the ball inside the box, weaved past several defenders, and calmly found the bottom corner.
Despite taking control of the scoreboard, South Africa faced challenges in the opening stages. The team had to adjust after losing key midfield figures. Teboho Mokoena missed the match due to injury, and his replacement, Bathusi Aubaas, was forced off early after picking up a knock. This led to Bafana Bafana reshuffling their midfield. However, they continued to create scoring opportunities.
Bafana Bafana put the result beyond doubt shortly after the restart when Sphephelo Sithole added a third goal in the 52nd minute. The midfielder, who replaced Mokoena, marked his contribution with a composed finish. South Africa continued to punish Eritrea, with Iqraam Rayners adding a fourth goal in the 63rd minute. This was Bafana's first goal from a recognised striker in the qualifiers.
Luther Singh completed the 5-0 rout in the referee's stoppage time. The victory keeps Pitso Mosimane's side firmly in control of their AFCON qualification campaign, with South Africa collecting maximum points from their opening two matches. The team demonstrated a significant improvement in their attacking performance.
The win over Eritrea boosts Bafana Bafana's confidence as they prepare for their friendly match against Egypt on Sunday. The team will then return to qualifying action later in the campaign. Mosimane's side will look to maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The match against Eritrea was a significant test for Bafana Bafana, and they rose to the challenge with a dominant performance. Relebohile Mofokeng's brace and the team's overall display will be crucial in their future matches. The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign is expected to be competitive, and Bafana Bafana will need to maintain their form.
Key points
- Relebohile Mofokeng scored a brace in Bafana Bafana's 5-0 victory over Eritrea.
- Bafana Bafana maintained their perfect start in Group D of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
- The team will face Egypt in a friendly match on Sunday before returning to qualifying action.
