Bafana Bafana held by Kenya after stoppage-time equaliser

Bafana Bafana were denied a third consecutive win after conceding in stoppage time to draw 2-2 with Kenya at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday night.

Pitso Mosimane’s side appeared set to claim all three points after twice taking the lead, but the Harambee Stars fought back to earn a share of the spoils and end South Africa’s winning start in Mosimane’s second spell as manager.

South Africa made the stronger opening and went ahead in unexpected fashion when Kenya midfielder Amos Wanjala put through his own goal. Wanjala failed to control a pass inside the penalty area, allowing the ball to roll beyond him and into the net.

The hosts were unable to turn that early advantage into sustained control. Although Bafana looked the superior side in terms of individual quality, their failure to extend the lead kept Kenya within reach.

The visitors levelled before the interval after Thabang Matuludi was ruled to have handled the ball inside the area. Kenya captain and striker Michael Olunga took responsibility from the penalty spot and converted to make it 1-1.

South Africa resumed the search for a second goal after half-time and regained the lead through another moment of quality from Relebohile Mofokeng.

The Orlando Pirates forward timed his run into the box to perfection, meeting a well-weighted lay-off from Lyle Foster before placing his shot into the top corner. His finish sparked celebrations among the home supporters and restored Bafana’s advantage.

There were few unexpected selections in Mosimane’s starting line-up, although the decision to keep Mbekezeli Mbokazi on the bench for his return to the national team attracted attention.

South Africa created further chances but were unable to put the game beyond Kenya. Iqraam Rayners was among those who failed to take his opportunities, and Mosimane replaced the striker in the 57th minute as he looked for greater attacking efficiency.

That profligacy ultimately proved expensive. Kenya continued to threaten rather than fade from the contest and found its equaliser deep into stoppage time, silencing the home crowd and preventing Bafana from securing victory.

The draw means Mosimane’s winning run at the start of his second tenure is over. South Africa must now regroup ahead of the return fixture against Kenya in Nairobi.