Bafana Bafana seek vital win in AFCON qualifier against South ...

Bafana Bafana face a crucial fixture on Tuesday as they take on South Sudan in the second match of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign.

After a frustrating 2-2 draw against Uganda, coach Hugo Broos knows nothing short of a victory in Juba will keep South Africa on track in their bid to qualify for the 2025 tournament.

“You never know that you’re going to win the game… you just try to win the game, and this is what we will try to do,” Broos said.

The Belgian coach reflected on the team’s performance against Uganda, attributing their draw to a late mistake by goalkeeper Veli Mothwa but also highlighting missed opportunities. 

“The game against Uganda was difficult, but normally we have to win that game because there were many chances Uganda didn’t have, and they scored the second goal from the mistake of our keeper.

“We had three, four, five chances to score. We will see how the game goes [on Tuesday], but again, we will try to win the game,”

South Africa is currently third in Group K, trailing Uganda, who lead with four points after defeating Congo 2-0. Congo sits in second with three points, having won their first match against South Sudan. Meanwhile, the Bright Stars of South Sudan are hoping to turn their fortunes around after a narrow 1-0 loss to Congo.

Bafana Bafana’s attacking options are likely to include Burnley striker Lyle Foster, who scored in their draw against Uganda. However, concerns remain over his fitness, with Broos yet to decide if Foster will start, given the short recovery period between matches. Defensive changes could also be on the cards, as goalkeeper Veli Mothwa came under scrutiny for his costly error last Friday. 

South Sudan, under coach Nicolas Dupuis, will aim to take advantage of home support and break a poor run of form, having gone five matches without a win. The hosts might also have to cope without Joseph Dhata, who is doubtful following an injury against Congo.

Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 PM local time at the Juba Stadium, with South Africa keen to assert their dominance and collect three vital points.

POWER Sports