By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South Africa secured a hard-fought 2-1 win against Guinea in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon.
Bafana Bafana’s first real scoring chance came in the 10th minute after midfield sensation Relebohile Mofokeng missed a golden opportunity to find the back of the net with only the goalkeeper left to beat.
The hosts opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a strike from centre-back Ime Okon to give Bafana Bafana a crucial lead going into half-time.
The second half of the match saw the tempo of the match drop drastically, with both sides struggling to create chances to score goals.
Guinea drew level in the 69th minute when Abdoul Traore won a foul on the edge of the box. Serhou Guirassy’s free kick slammed into the wall but bounced into the path of Seydouba Cisse, who rifled home. The home side players were incensed, claiming offside, but the goal was given.
Bafana Bafana bounced back and took the lead again in the 77th minute. A fine lay-off from Oswin Appollis sent substitute Samukele Kabini clean through, and he held off his man before slotting a low finish through the legs of Soumayla Sylla.
The home side began a new era under Mosimane, aiming to produce an impressive performance in front of their home fans.
Mosimane took over the hot seat as a replacement for Hugo Broos who has spent five years in charge, having arrived in South Africa in 2021.
South Africa next travel to neutral Cairo to face Eritrea on Wednesday, while Guinea host Kenya the following day.
The qualification competition for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations takes place from September 2026 to March 2027. The 48 teams have been drawn into 12 groups, with the top two in each advancing to the 24-team finals.