Mosimane hails Bafana Bafana victory but warns AFCON qualifying campaign is far from over

Pitso Mosimane praised Bafana Bafana’s hard-fought 2-1 win over Guinea in their opening Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match, while stressing that there is still a long road ahead in Group D.

South Africa created a succession of chances during the first half at Orlando Stadium yesterday but were unable to make their dominance count. Ime Okon eventually put Bafana ahead shortly before the interval.

Guinea equalised through Seydouba Cisse in the 69th minute, but Samukelo Kabini restored South Africa’s advantage seven minutes later to secure the victory.

Mosimane said Guinea had provided a stern test and deserved respect despite missing the previous AFCON tournament.

“I think we have to give some respect to Guinea because they made it difficult and played well despite not being in the AFCON last time out,” he said.

“It will be a very interesting game between Guinea and Kenya because they’re a quality side with their tricky wingers, but Sebelebele was there to match Balde who was causing problems in the first half.”

The Bafana Bafana coach also credited Ime Okon and Makhanya for dealing with Guinea’s number nine, while highlighting Mbuthuma’s contribution to Kabini’s winning goal.

“I thought Okon and Makhanya worked well together to handle their number nine as well. I’m also happy for Mbuthuma who got the assist for Kabini’s goal. Iqraam Rayners was also good it’s just that the ball didn’t fall for him.”

South Africa could have taken a decisive lead before half-time, having missed several clear opportunities. Mosimane said improving their finishing remained a priority, describing it as a wider issue in South African football.

Kabini was brought on for the injured Aubrey Modiba in the second half and scored soon afterwards. Mosimane had spoken briefly to the substitute before he entered the field but rejected the suggestion that the exchange had directly influenced the goal.

The coach was also pleased with Kamogelo Sebelebele’s performance, particularly his battle with Aliou Balde during the first half.

Mosimane confirmed that Modiba had been substituted because of a tight hamstring, leaving him doubtful for the next qualifying match against Eritrea. Eritrea drew 1-1 with Kenya in Nairobi.

The three-time CAF Champions League-winning coach said South Africa were fortunate to have two further left-back options in Kabini and Fawaaz Basadien.

Bafana Bafana travelled straight to the airport after the match for a flight to Cairo, Egypt, via Doha, Qatar. Their next fixture is against Eritrea on Wednesday, followed by an international friendly against Egypt next weekend.