Pitso Mosimane’s homecoming hit a dramatic late snag in Soweto. A fearless Kenyan side, led by South African legend Benni McCarthy, snatched a point from the jaws of defeat.
What looked set to be another routine march toward AFCON qualification turned into a tense, end-to-end thriller that left Orlando Stadium stunned at the death.
Bafana start bright before a chaotic first half
The hosts started brightly. Ronwen Williams made a fine save in the opening minute, but Bafana Bafana’s high press soon paid off. Kenyan defender Amos Wanjala turned the ball into his own net in the ninth minute.
Kenya relied on counterattacks, while Ime Okon and Olwethu Makhanya limited Michael Olunga’s influence. However, Bafana could not find a second clear chance.
Kenya were handed a lifeline late in the first half when Olunga converted from the penalty spot following a handball in the area.
Mofokeng magic restores the Bafana lead
South Africa were lethargic after the break but improved once Puso Dithejane and Lyle Foster came off the bench.
Relebohile Mofokeng then struck a stunning volley in the 77th minute—assisted by Foster—to restore the hosts’ lead. It was a moment of pure quality that looked destined to be the winner.
Defensive lapse costs Bafana dearly in AFCON qualifier
Late on, though, Makhanya let a long ball bounce. This allowed Ogam to slip in behind him and drill a low shot past Williams.
The result ended a perfect start for Mosimane. Meanwhile, Benni McCarthy, back in South Africa as Kenya’s coach, took a hard-earned point.
Bafana had far more of the ball but were wasteful in front of goal. South Africa still top Group D with seven points from three games, though their lead over second-placed Guinea has been cut to a single point.
Read the official CAF match report for the latest group updates.
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