Afcon 2027 Qualifiers: South Africa edge Guinea in tense Group D opener

South Africa began their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Guinea in Group D on Saturday.

The hosts made the brighter start and took the lead in the 30th minute. Ime Okon finished Sphephelo Sithole’s assist to give South Africa a 1-0 advantage at half-time. Guinea struggled to create clear openings during the first period but remained within touching distance.

The visitors eventually found an equaliser in the 69th minute through Seydouba Cisse, who brought Guinea level and raised hopes of a valuable away point. South Africa responded positively, however, and restored their lead eight minutes later.

Samukelo Kabini scored in the 77th minute after being set up by Yanela Mbuthuma, giving the hosts a decisive advantage. Guinea pushed for another equaliser during the closing stages, but South Africa defended resolutely to secure all three points. Kabini was named player of the match for his influential contribution.

South Africa will play Eritrea on September 30 in Group D, while Guinea will take on Kenya on October 1. South Africa leads with three points; Eritrea and Kenya have one each, while Guinea is bottom with zero points.