The final set of AFCON qualifiers is upon us, and the upcoming double-header against Uganda and South Sudan will define South Africa’s journey to the next African Cup of Nations.
Both teams enter these crucial matches with unbeaten records, and a victory for either side will secure their place in the tournament to be held in Morocco next year. Uganda, defying expectations, has dominated Group K with three wins and a draw. Indeed, their only dropped points came against South Africa in the opening round, when Bafana Bafana’s Thalente Mbatha equalized during stoppage time to snatch a point for the hosts.
Since then, South Africa has been firing on all cylinders, leading the group in goals scored. However, recent injury setbacks have dealt a blow to the squad. The absence of key players like Percy Tau and Lyle Foster raises questions about the team’s attacking prowess.
Nevertheless, Mo G believes that there is sufficient strength in depth and Bafana Bafana have the necessary personnel to get the job done. Speaking on Soccer Betting News, the analyst had this to say, “Looking at the compatriots who were called to replace them, I mean, [Evidence] Makgopa, [Iqraam] Rayners are there in the striking department to help us in that department. So I don’t see any problem, we are covered in all angles and positions as Bafana Bafana going into these two crunch games.”
As Group K leaders, Uganda poses a significant threat to Hugo Broos’ ambitions of qualifying top of the group. After the opening draw against the Cranes, Bafana Bafana secured a 3-2 win over South Sudan and a 5-0 thrashing of Congo. However, they were held to a 1-1 draw by the Leopards just four days later.
Kick off at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala is set for 15h00 (SAST) on Friday, 15 November 2024.
Written by Desh Parthab.