Mofokeng double puts South Africa 2-0 up against Eritrea at half-time

South Africa hold a 2-0 half-time lead over Eritrea in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Al Salam Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Date: 30 September 2026 Competition: 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier Venue: Al Salam Stadium

Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane made two changes to the side that defeated Guinea. Kabini replaced Aubrey Modiba at left-back, while Bathusi Aubaas came into midfield for the injured Teboho Mokoena.

Aubaas’ involvement lasted only 12 minutes, however, before he was forced off after picking up a knock. Durban City midfielder Brooklyn Poggenpoel replaced him, making his competitive debut for South Africa.

South Africa had already threatened before taking the lead, with Mofokeng striking the upright from distance during an energetic opening spell.

The forward made the breakthrough in the 18th minute after receiving a pass from Oswin Appollis. He kept his composure to guide the ball into the bottom corner and give Mosimane’s side the advantage.

Bafana Bafana continued to control much of the first half, with the midfield and attack combining effectively in Eritrea’s half. Their build-up produced several promising situations, although South Africa were initially unable to add to Mofokeng’s opener.

Eritrea offered glimpses of danger on the counter-attack and were not simply overrun, but their forward play did not seriously test the South African defence.

South Africa did find a second goal just before the interval. Mofokeng completed his brace with a well-timed run into the penalty area before firing into the far corner.

South Africa’s starting line-up was: Williams, Okon, Makhanya, Kabini, Sebelebele, Sithole, Aubaas, Mofokeng, Appollis, Maseko, Rayners.

The substitutes were Goss, Chaine, Mbuthuma, Matuludi, Morena, Singh, Seema, Ndamane, Basadien, Mailula, Poggenpoel and Zwane.

Poggenpoel’s introduction means South Africa have already been required to make an enforced change before half-time, despite beginning the match with the same midfield adjustment that brought Aubaas into the side.