Mosimane praises Appollis and Mofokeng after Bafana’s 5-0 AFCON qualifying win

Pitso Mosimane praised Oswin Appollis and Relebohile Mofokeng after Bafana Bafana began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with two victories from two matches.

South Africa secured a convincing 5-0 win over Eritrea at the Al Salaam stadium in Cairo, Egypt, last night, strengthening their position in Group D.

Mofokeng scored twice, while Appollis was credited with three assists as the pair made a decisive contribution to all five goals. Siphephelo Sithole, Iqraam Rayners and Luther Singh scored the other goals.

Mosimane was pleased with the attacking display and highlighted Appollis’ versatility and influence.

“I’m happy with two assists from Appollis, he can play anywhere, on the side, come in and all that. He’s a good boy, a good player, I’m happy for Appollis, he gave us an assist, he gave Luther an opportunity to come back, he’s been out for a long time to score,” Mosimane said.

“Even Luther gave two balls and two assists. That shows that the players are together, no selfishness and all of that. Rele showed his class, what a class, Rele is a top player.”

The result was not entirely straightforward at the beginning, with Eritrea creating two early opportunities.

The Red Sea Camels, encouraged by their 1-1 draw against Kenya at the weekend, started strongly and came close to scoring when they hit the post. Their number 10, Ali, also posed a threat, having already shown his ability to score goals.

Bafana Bafana gradually settled into the match and took control, eventually turning the game into a one-sided contest. Mosimane was satisfied with the way his players responded to Eritrea’s energetic opening.

“You’re a coach, you’ll be happy with five goals, you are happy with three points. Eritrea started very good, very strong and they had a chance, they hit the post. Their number 10 Ali is very dangerous, we know he scores goals but we had to look after him because he’s very important to look after,” he said.

Mosimane said South Africa had prepared for a difficult match after studying Eritrea’s performance against Kenya. Eritrea had led that game before Kenya scored a late equaliser.

“We saw how they played against Kenya, they were leading and Kenya equalised late. So, we had to give them the respect that they deserve and I’m happy that we won, that’s more important. Two games, six points and a few goals if possible,” Mosimane added.