South Africa wrapped up their impressive 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification campaign in style with a commanding 3-0 victory over South Sudan at the Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Goals from Iqraam Rayners, Patrick Maswanganyi, and Teboho Mokoena secured the win, which saw Bafana Bafana finish at the top of Group K. They edged out fellow qualifiers Uganda, who triumphed 1-0 against Congo in a simultaneous fixture.
The hosts wasted no time asserting their dominance, taking the lead in the seventh minute. Oswin Appollis showcased brilliant work down the left flank, setting up Iqraam Rayners for a simple close-range finish to make it 1-0.
Midway through the first half, South Africa doubled their advantage. A long-range strike from Teboho Mokoena was mishandled by South Sudan goalkeeper Majak Mawith, allowing Patrick Maswanganyi to pounce. Maswanganyi rounded the keeper with composure before tapping into an empty net for 2-0.
Bafana Bafana sealed the victory early in the second half. Five minutes after the restart, Teboho Mokoena converted a penalty after Khuliso Mudau was fouled off the ball inside the box.
With the game well under control, South Africa handed 33-year-old goalkeeper Sage Stephens his senior national team debut. He replaced captain Ronwen Williams with just over 15 minutes of regulation time remaining.
The hosts saw out the match comfortably, concluding their qualification campaign with an exemplary performance. Their dominant display bodes well for their chances at the 2025 AFCON tournament.
