Bafana Bafana sealed a 4-2 aggregate victory to progress to the final round. Photo credit: Citizen
(The Post News)- South Africa has secured a spot in the next round of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers. They commanded 3-1 victory over Egypt at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia on Sunday night. The result saw them clinch the two-legged tie 4-2 on aggregate, following a 1-1 draw in Bloemfontein a week ago. They will now gear up for the final qualifying round scheduled for May 2025.
Since assembling two weeks ago, the squad has gained momentum, displaying increasing confidence and cohesion. That energy was evident from the start, as they took control of the match early on, dictating play against their hosts in their own backyard.
It didn’t take long for captain Neo Maema to justify the technical team’s faith in him, opening the scoring in the 15th minute with a clinical close-range finish. The visitors’ composure and dominance made it seem as though they were playing on home turf rather than in front of an Egyptian crowd.
Their confidence was further rewarded when Yandisa Mfolozi doubled the lead in the 26th minute. Egypt managed to respond through Mohamed Abouelenein, who pulled one back in the 32nd minute, but South Africa remained unfazed.
The visitors extended their advantage in the 50th minute when Siphelele Luthuli calmly converted from the penalty spot, putting the game beyond reach. With South Africa firmly in control, they could have added even more to the scoreboard, such was their dominance over the hosts.
Reflecting on the victory, coach Molefi Ntseki credited the team’s disciplined execution and tactical endurance. He highlighted the effectiveness of their training sessions, stating that the team successfully implemented their game plan, particularly in unsettling Egypt early on. He also praised the players’ discipline without the ball and acknowledged the support from the entire squad, including those on the bench and in the stands.
South African Football Association (SAFA) President Dr. Danny Jordaan commended the team for their impressive achievement, emphasising the significance of defeating Egypt on their home soil by such a decisive margin. He extended congratulations to the entire squad and technical staff, expressing pride in their performance on the continental stage.
The team is set to return to South Africa on Tuesday. They arecarrying the momentum of this triumph as they prepare for the final qualification hurdle in May.
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