Bafana Bafana have broken a 21-year opening-match “curse” at AFCON! Following their thrilling 2-1 victory over Angola in Marrakech, here is a detailed breakdown of how each player performed in the Group B opener.
The Last Line
- Ronwen Williams (C) – 8/10 (Star Performer) The skipper was the reason Bafana stayed in the game during a shaky first half. He pulled off three “titanic” saves, including a point-blank header from Gelson Dala, proving why he remains Africa’s top shot-stopper.
The Back Four
- Khuliso Mudau – 7/10 A tireless engine on the right. His well-timed delivery into the box provided the assist for the opening goal.
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi – 7.5/10 A standout debut. He was rock-solid defensively and nearly scored a “goal of the tournament” contender with a long-range thunderbolt that rattled the crossbar.
- Siyabonga Ngezana – 5.5/10 A difficult night for the overseas-based defender. He conceded the foul that led to Angola’s equalizer and looked slightly out of sync with the rest of the backline.
- Aubrey Modiba – 6/10 He struggled in the first half under heavy Angolan pressure but found his rhythm in the second half as Bafana took control.
The Engine Room
- Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole – 7/10 The “anchor” of the team. His physical presence was vital in matching Angola’s intensity, providing the grit needed to win the midfield battle.
- Teboho Mokoena – 6.5/10 A quiet first half by his high standards, but he grew into the game, dictating the tempo once Bafana found their second-half groove.
The Creative Spark & Attack
- Oswin Appollis – 8/10 Clinical. He announced himself on the big stage with a composed finish in the 21st minute and worked tirelessly on both wings throughout the night.
- Sipho Mbule – 7/10 Stepping into the “Number 10” role, his composure on the ball improved noticeably after the break, allowing South Africa to maintain possession.
- Lyle Foster – 7.5/10 The definition of “Premier League Class.” Though quiet for long periods, he rewrote the narrative with a stunning 79th-minute curling winner from outside the box.
- Mohau Nkota – 4/10 The youngster struggled to find his footing on his debut and was substituted at half-time.
Impact Substitutes
- Tshepang Moremi – 8/10 (Super Sub) Changed the game. He had a goal cruelly ruled out by VAR for a marginal offside but stayed focused to provide the match-winning assist for Foster.
