Broos admits doubts as late Mbatha goal gives Bafana Bafana ...

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has admitted that he had lost faith in his team’s ability to secure all three points against South Sudan, despite a dramatic late goal from Thalente Mbatha.

In an intense Group K AFCON qualifier, Bafana Bafana clinched a 3-2 victory after conceding twice in a match marked by defensive frailties and missed opportunities.

“I’m very happy that we still could win the game,” Broos said.

“Honestly, I didn’t believe in it anymore because the problems we had were because of us. I know that this Sudan team plays with heart and dedication. They have a lot of tall players and our defence was not aggressive enough.”

South Sudan took the lead early in the first half,  leaving Bafana Bafana scrambling to find their footing. South Africa managed to equalise and later advance, but once again let their opponents draw level due to defensive lapses. 

Broos expressed frustration with his team’s inability to capitalise on their chances in the opening 45 minutes.

“In the first half, we could have scored more. The game could have been done after 45 minutes. Those chances have to be goals,”

In the dying moments of the match, however, Thalente Mbatha once again proved the hero for South Africa. Mbatha netted the winning goal in stoppage time, moving Bafana Bafana to second place in Group K. They now sit level on four points with group leaders Uganda after two matches.

Broos acknowledged the significance of Mbatha’s goal but emphasised the need for the team to improve defensively if they are to succeed in future encounters.

“Again, we put ourselves in problems but in the end, it was a happy end for us,” he added.

POWER Sports