Bafana Bafana bounced back in style, securing a vital 2-0 victory against Zimbabwe in their second Group A clash at the COSAFA Cup. Following a disappointing loss to Mozambique, the South African squad showcased resilience and determination to claim their first win of the tournament.
A Revamped Line-Up Pays Dividends
Coach Vela Khumalo made several changes to the starting eleven, injecting fresh energy into the team. Kwanda Mngonyama, Siyanda Msani, Masindi Nemtajela, and Boitumelo Radiopane were all given opportunities to prove their worth. Radiopane's lively movement upfront caused problems for the Zimbabwean defence from the outset.
Bafana dominated the early stages, with Kabelo Dlamini forcing a strong save from Zimbabwe's goalkeeper, Martin Mapisa. Zimbabwe's woes were compounded by an injury to Simbarashe Takaedza, forcing an early substitution.
Dlamini and Okon Seal the Deal
The breakthrough came courtesy of a penalty won by Nemtajela, which Kabelo Dlamini calmly converted to put Bafana ahead. Despite Kamogelo Sebelebele's late first-half effort, Mapisa remained resilient, keeping the score at 1-0 going into the break.
Bafana continued to press in the second half, and their persistence paid off when Ime Okon rose highest to head home a curling free-kick, doubling their lead. Late substitutions, including the introduction of Athenkosi Mcaba and Victor Letsoalo, added fresh legs to the South African attack. Letsoalo almost scored a dream goal, but a resolute Zimbabwean defence denied him.
Ultimately, Bafana Bafana held on to secure a well-deserved 2-0 victory, boosting their chances of reaching the COSAFA Cup semi-finals. The win was particularly sweet, thanks to stellar performances from Orlando Pirates' Kabelo Dlamini and Kaizer Chiefs-linked defender Ime Okon.
Confirmed line-ups: South Africa: Mbanjwa, Msani, Okon, McCarthy, Moralo, Dlamini, Mgonyama, Nemtajela, Sebelebele, Mkhize, Radiopane. Subs: Mpoto, Johnson, Dithejane, Mfolozi, Du.