Five key talking points from Bafana Bafana’s perfect AFCON qualifying start

Bafana Bafana sit top of Group D after opening their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with victories over Guinea and Eritrea, giving new coach Pitso Mosimane an ideal start.

South Africa began with a 2-1 win against Guinea at Orlando Stadium on Saturday before claiming a convincing 5-0 victory over Eritrea at Al Salam Stadium in Cairo, Egypt, last night.

The results have provided early indications of the strengths and potential concerns within Mosimane’s squad.

Mofokeng making the number 10 role his own

The search for a long-term successor to Themba Zwane in the number 10 position was one of Hugo Broos’ concerns during his time as national team coach.

However, Relebohile Mofokeng has made a strong early case for the role after just two matches. The midfielder has shown the creativity and ability to unlock defences that South Africa will need in the position.

Defensive depth is encouraging

Bafana Bafana have also demonstrated that they have options in central defence, even in the absence of Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

Olwethu Makhanya, who did not play a single minute at the FIFA World Cup, stepped into the team and produced a composed performance. The defender, highly regarded by Glasgow Rangers, was comfortable in possession and formed an effective partnership with Ime Okon, who also impressed across the two matches.

Mosimane can further call on Lebone Seema and Khulumani Ndamane, suggesting South Africa have considerable depth in central defence for the years ahead.

Midfield injuries expose a shortage of options

The number of midfield absences may prompt Mosimane to broaden his selection pool in central midfield.

Lebohang Maboe was injured before reporting for camp, while Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas both picked up knocks. Thalente Mbatha was also unavailable for this international window, leaving the coach with fewer options than he would have wanted.

The situation underlines the need for sufficient cover in a department regarded as one of the most important in the national team.

The search for a prolific striker continues

Questions over South Africa’s striking options remain, with Iqraam Rayners starting both qualifiers.

Rayners scored against Eritrea but was not at his best overall, while Yanela Mbuthuma offered encouragement after coming off the bench against Guinea. Even so, Bafana Bafana still appear to lack a consistently prolific finisher.

Cassius Mailula remains an option, but Mosimane will hope additional strikers emerge and force their way into contention, creating stronger competition for places.

Zwane remains an important presence

During the Guinea match at Orlando Stadium, Mosimane was seen speaking with Zwane on the substitutes’ bench and seeking the experienced midfielder’s views.

The coach has explained that Zwane is among the trusted figures whose experience and guidance remain valuable to the squad. Although he is not expected to feature regularly, his influence around the team will continue to be important.