Campbell and Dithejane combine as South Africa beat Egypt in Cairo

Shandre Campbell created the winning goal for Puso Dithejane as South Africa defeated Egypt 1-0 in Cairo on Sunday, giving Pitso Mosimane a winning start to his first assignment as Bafana Bafana manager.

The result makes it three victories from three matches for South Africa under Mosimane, following wins over Guinea and Eritrea in last month’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Dithejane, who had previously made six appearances at the COSAFA Cup, marked his senior international debut with the decisive goal. Campbell was also making his first appearance for the senior national side.

Mosimane made several changes to the team that began the 5-0 victory over Eritrea. Sphephelo Sithole and Ime Okon were the only players to retain their places, while Sipho Chaine captained the side.

Egypt started brightly and controlled the opening 20 minutes, although they struggled to break through a disciplined South African defence. Omar Marmoush had the first significant opportunity in the eighth minute, but his effort from inside the penalty area went wide.

The hosts then began shooting from distance after failing to make their early openings count. Mohamed Hany and Marwan Ateya both tried their luck from outside the box, but neither found the target.

South Africa began to threaten in the 20th minute when Tashreeq Mathews played the ball to Thabang Matuludi. Matuludi, however, was unable to make the most of the chance as his final touch lacked conviction.

Egypt came close again in the 29th minute after South Africa lost possession inside their own penalty area. Ibrahim Adel attempted to take advantage, but Chaine made the save.

The Orlando Pirates goalkeeper was required once more 10 minutes before half-time, denying Karim Hafez as Egypt continued to search for an opening.

South Africa created a few opportunities of their own before the interval. Cassius Mailula saw a tame effort saved, while Matuludi sent a shot narrowly wide after receiving a pass from Fawaaz Basadien.

Mosimane responded at half-time with a triple substitution. Tshepang Moremi, Campbell and Khulumani Ndamane replaced Luther Singh, Mathews and Okon.

The changes had an immediate impact. Campbell supplied Dithejane, who held off the goalkeeper and two defenders before finishing in the 50th minute to put South Africa ahead.

Egypt were largely contained for the following 12 minutes, but substitute Hamza Abdelkarim produced a moment of individual quality as he attempted to level the match. His effort was stopped by an excellent save from Ricardo Goss.

South Africa held on to complete a notable victory over the Pharaohs and maintain Mosimane’s perfect start in charge.