AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: South Africa held to 2-2 draw by Kenya in Group D

South Africa missed the opportunity to maintain their perfect start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after being held to a dramatic 2-2 draw by Kenya in their Group D encounter on Friday.

Bafana Bafana took an early lead at Orlando Amstel Arena in Johannesburg when Kenya defender Amos Wanjala turned the ball into his own net in the ninth minute.

Kenya responded strongly and restored parity just before half-time, with captain Michael Olunga converting a penalty in the 44th minute.

South Africa pushed forward after the break and regained the lead through Relebohile Mofokeng, who found the back of the net in the 77th minute to put the hosts in a strong position.

However, Kenya refused to give up and snatched a point in the closing stages when substitute Ryan Ogam scored in the 90th minute to make it 2-2.

The result leaves South Africa with seven points from three matches in Group D, while Kenya move to two points.

The sides will meet again in Nairobi on November 17.