Bafana Bafana give Pitso Mosimane winning return against Guinea

Bafana Bafana began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Guinea at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon, giving Pitso Mosimane a winning start to his second spell in charge of South Africa.

Ime Okon put the hosts ahead in the 30th minute before Seydouba Cisse equalised for Guinea 11 minutes into the second half. Substitute Samukele Kabini restored South Africa’s lead in the 77th minute to secure the points.

Mosimane’s return carried considerable importance as Bafana Bafana began their route towards next year’s AFCON, while Guinea arrived determined to produce an upset.

South Africa were tested during the opening stages. Aliou Balde beat Aubrey Modiba in a one-on-one duel on the flank, moved goal-side and forced a save from goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

Bafana Bafana weathered that early pressure and took the lead when Modiba delivered a cross towards the far post. Okon arrived at the right moment, controlled the ball and struck his first goal for the national team.

Guinea threatened an immediate response shortly before half-time. Serhou Guirassy produced a powerful free-kick from outside the penalty area, but his effort flew over Williams’ goal.

Guinea level after the break

The Syli National continued positively after the restart and came close to drawing level when Abdoulaye Camara met the ball with a forceful header. His effort rolled narrowly wide.

South Africa then had an opportunity to extend their advantage. A cross from the right found Oswin Appollis in the area, but his close-range header was kept out by Soumaila Sylla.

As Guinea pressed for an equaliser, Mosimane turned to his substitutes and sent on Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma for Iqraam Rayners midway through the second half.

The visitors drew level only a minute later. A free-kick from outside the box struck the defensive wall and deflected into the path of Cisse, who reacted quickest before finishing from close range.

South Africa responded during the final 10 minutes. Kabini moved short on the left side of the attacking area and combined with Mbuthuma before cutting inside and placing his finish into the near corner.

Bafana Bafana held firm for the remainder of the match and preserved their advantage, allowing Mosimane to mark his second debut as national team coach with a victory.