Mofokeng, Appollis and Singh offer Bafana Bafana a new route to goals

Bafana Bafana’s emerging attacking trio of Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis and Luther Singh is offering South Africa a possible solution to their long-standing goalscoring concerns.

South African football has often been criticised for failing to produce reliable finishers. Even Benni McCarthy, the national team’s record goalscorer, scored only 31 goals during his international career.

But the modern game does not always depend on a traditional No 9. With Mofokeng, Appollis and Singh operating together, Bafana Bafana possess three players capable of creating and finishing chances, particularly when the team attacks in transition.

The trio was central to South Africa’s 5-0 victory over Eritrea in their second 2027 AFCON qualifier at Al Salam Stadium on Wednesday night. Mofokeng scored twice, Appollis supplied three assists and Singh added the other goal.

Eritrea were ranked 184th in the world and 50th in Africa before the match, while South Africa were ranked 49th and 10th respectively. The gulf between the teams was clear, but the performance provided encouragement ahead of more demanding fixtures.

Mofokeng, in particular, displayed a growing maturity. Since moving to the Belgian Pro League, he has developed physically and also shown an impressive awareness of his surroundings, allowing him to dictate the rhythm of matches.

Bafana Bafana manager Pitso Mosimane was full of praise for the forward after the game, describing him as a godsend whose natural ability and quality make him difficult to coach.

An in-form Mofokeng presents a significant threat. He scored 11 goals and provided nine assists in 39 appearances for Orlando Pirates last season as they won the league and two domestic trophies.

Those figures were especially notable in a country where dependable strikers remain in short supply. His success was also supported by his partnership with Appollis, with the pair developing a highly effective understanding.

Both players possess considerable skill, although Mofokeng is particularly dangerous when South Africa break forward. Appollis prefers to move inside, using changes of direction to create opportunities for a pass or shot.

Mosimane had previously encouraged Appollis to adjust to the national team’s approach rather than rely too heavily on the habits developed at club level. His performance against the Red Sea Camels suggested that he had responded positively to that advice.

Although Mofokeng and Appollis took different paths during pre-season, their connection remains evident. That combination is something Mosimane will want to see continue, regardless of the clubs the players represent.

The partnership becomes even more threatening with Singh included. Returning to Bafana Bafana for the first time in five years during this camp, Singh showed a clear determination to contribute.

His quick feet, understanding of the game, pace and physical strength allow him to confront defenders directly. He also brings a consistent desire to score.

With Iqraam Rayners short of rhythm because of limited playing time at Mamelodi Sundowns, Singh’s qualities could prove valuable. Mosimane has said he will give other players an opportunity in Sunday night’s international friendly against Egypt in Cairo, but managing the trio carefully could help preserve the attacking chemistry already developing.