A revamped Bafana Bafana secured a confident 2-0 victory over Mozambique in an international friendly at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Tuesday evening.
The win showcased the depth and potential of Hugo Broos’s experimental squad, building on a goalless draw against Tanzania last Friday.
The “new-look” Bafana side, featuring an entirely changed starting lineup from the previous match and including three debutants – Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Samukele Kabini, and Yanela Mbuthuma – demonstrated their attacking prowess throughout the game.
Read: South Africa B Secures Hollywoodbets COSAFA Cup Semi-Final Spot
After a first half where Bafana Bafana created numerous opportunities but struggled to convert, Sinoxolo Kwayiba broke the deadlock just two minutes after the restart. In only his third international appearance, Kwayiba powerfully headed home a corner kick from Mohau Nkota, giving South Africa a deserved lead.
The advantage was doubled by substitute Ashley Cupido, who made an immediate impact after coming on in the second half. Just three minutes after his introduction, Cupido latched onto another assist from Nkota, firing in a superb finish in the 70th minute to solidify Bafana’s control of the match.
Despite the two goals, Bafana Bafana could have had more. Mozambican goalkeeper Ivane Urrubal was kept busy throughout the first half, denying Mohau Nkota, Relebohile Mofokeng on multiple occasions, and even making a remarkable save from a close-range effort by Kwayiba that seemed destined for the net.
Mozambique attempted to rally in the latter stages of the game, enjoying more possession. Shaquille came close to grabbing a consolation goal with a header, but Bafana’s substitute goalkeeper Renaldo Lerner, who also came on in the second half, was alert to tip the ball past the post and preserve the clean sheet.
This victory will undoubtedly provide Broos with valuable insights as he continues to shape his squad for future challenges.