Mosimane draws on Egypt connection as Bafana Bafana target Eritrea victory

Pitso Mosimane says returning to Egypt with Bafana Bafana has stirred powerful memories as he prepares his side for an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Eritrea and a friendly against the hosts.

South Africa face Eritrea at Al Salaam Stadium on Wednesday, September 30, before meeting Egypt at Cairo International Stadium on Sunday, October 4.

Mosimane spent two successful years managing Al Ahly, the African Club of the Century, winning six trophies, including consecutive CAF Champions League titles. Those triumphs were his second and third in the competition and made him hugely popular with both the club’s supporters and people across Egypt.

The Bafana Bafana coach said the reception he had received since arriving in the country had been deeply emotional.

“It’s my second home,” Mosimane said at his pre-match press conference before Wednesday’s game. “When you land at the airport, it brings memories and tears to your eyes. It’s like I was here yesterday.

“The waiters, managers at the hotel, and the people (on the streets) – it’s unbelievable, the love that they show me. It’s my home. When you get love, you should appreciate it. Egypt has been a good place.”

The warm welcome also brings added expectation, with Mosimane seeking a second win since taking charge of Bafana Bafana. He began his tenure with victory over Guinea in their opening 2027 Afcon qualifier at Orlando Amstel Arena last Saturday.

South Africa are ranked 50th in the world and 10th in Africa, while Eritrea are 184th globally and 50th on the continent. Mosimane warned, however, that Bafana Bafana would be taking a risk if they underestimated opponents who drew 1-1 with co-hosts Kenya in their opening match.

He also highlighted Eritrea forward Ali Suleiman, who plays for Egyptian top-flight club Al Masry, as a particular danger.

“The most important thing is to give respect to them,” Mosimane said. “They are in the group, and they qualified to be in the group. That’s more important. We saw them against Eswatini, and they managed to win to qualify.

“We respect them for that. They’ve got a striker who’s scoring all the time. The guy plays here in Egypt. He’s a top goalscorer, and he’s fast. He can score from any angle, whether left or right. He’s deadly on set-pieces as well. We have to be wary of him.”

A victory over Eritrea would strengthen Bafana Bafana’s confidence before their meeting with Egypt. Despite having not achieved continental success since 2010, Egypt remain favourites for the second match in Cairo.