South Africa has cemented their place in the 2025 AFCON with a resounding 3-0 victory over South Sudan at a packed DHL Cape Town Stadium.
This triumph marked a triumphant return to the city after a nine-year absence and propelled them to the top of Group K in the AFCON qualifiers. The combination of skill, strategic guidance, and unwavering fan support has created a powerful force that could propel South African foot ball to new heights. Here are my top three takeaway’s!
The future is in good hands
As the nation celebrates this momentous achievement, the future of South African football appears bright. With a talented young generation, including promising players like Relebohile Mofokeng, Thalente Mbatha, and Oswin Appollis, the team is poised to continue its upward trajectory.
Fans Fans Fans
The sold-out DHL Cape Town Stadium, filled with jubilant fans, created an electric atmosphere reminiscent of the iconic Toyota Stadium in Free State, where Bafana Bafana had previously secured a 3-1 victory over Zimbabwe. The passionate support from the South African public underscored the nation’s renewed interest in football and the team’s ability to inspire.
Coach Hugo Broos expressed his delight with the performance, emphasizing the importance of not only qualifying but also delivering a memorable show for the dedicated fans. “Most important thing was that we were qualified but we wanted to show something today to this crowd,” Broos told SABC Sport.
African heavyweights
The team’s consistent performance throughout the qualifying campaign has been a testament to their stability and potential. Unbeaten in their last 11 matches, including a commendable third-place finish at the 2023 AFCON, Bafana Bafana have showcased a formidable attacking force, scoring 16 goals in six qualifiers, second only to Morocco.