Pitso Mosimane starts second Bafana Bafana spell with Guinea victory

Bafana Bafana gave Pitso Mosimane a winning return as South Africa beat Guinea 2-1 in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Saturday afternoon.

Ime Okon put the hosts ahead after 30 minutes, before Seydouba Cisse levelled for Guinea in the 69th minute. Kabini restored South Africa’s lead seven minutes later to secure Mosimane’s first victory of his second era with the national side.

Eight players who started against Canada in the FIFA World Cup Last 32 retained their places, while Mosimane made four changes. Kamogelo Sebelele, Olwethu Makhanya, Relebohile Mofokeng and Iqraam Rayners were brought into the starting line-up.

Both teams began with purpose as they searched for an early breakthrough. South Africa had the clearest opportunity inside the opening 10 minutes when Mofokeng intercepted a loose ball and found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper, but he sent his shot wide.

The hosts continued to control the game and were rewarded in the 30th minute. Okon reacted quickest when the ball broke loose inside the penalty area and volleyed home from close range, scoring the first goal of Mosimane’s return to the Bafana Bafana dugout.

Guinea found it difficult to regain possession after falling behind. Their principal striker, Serhou Guirassy, received little service during the first half as South Africa maintained their grip on the match.

Mosimane’s side continued to press for a second goal before the interval. Teboho Mokoena came closest when one of his trademark long-range efforts forced Guinea goalkeeper Soumaila Sylla into an excellent save.

The visitors emerged after half-time intent on restoring parity, but South Africa’s defence held firm during the opening 15 minutes of the second half. Guinea were largely limited to attempts from distance, none of which seriously tested Williams.

The equaliser arrived in controversial circumstances in the 69th minute. A deflected free-kick fell to Cisse, who took control before shooting beyond Williams. Replays, however, showed the Guinea player had been in an offside position.

South Africa responded quickly and regained the lead seven minutes later. Two substitutes combined as Yanela Mbuthuma supplied Kabini, who broke into the penalty area and calmly placed his finish beyond Sylla.

The goal was Kabini’s first for Bafana Bafana and completed a 2-1 win that gave Mosimane a positive beginning on his return to the national team.