Junior Khanye Critiques Sipho Mbule’s AFCON Opener Performance

Despite Bafana Bafana securing a 2-1 victory over Angola in their AFCON opener, former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has voiced concerns over the team’s cohesion—specifically pointing to a lackluster showing from Sipho Mbule.

While goals from Oswin Appollis and Lyle Foster secured the three points in Morocco, Khanye argues that the scoreboard masked significant tactical gaps and individual under-performances.

Key Takeaways from Khanye’s Critique

Junior Khanye, speaking on iDiski TV, highlighted several areas where Bafana Bafana struggled to find their rhythm:

• Mbule’s “Missing” Presence: Despite high pre-tournament expectations, Khanye felt Mbule was largely invisible. He criticized the midfielder for losing possession frequently in his own half and failing to turn toward the opposition goal.
• Lack of Tactical Links: Khanye noted a disconnect between several key pairings, specifically:
  • Mbokazi and Ngezana in defense.
  • Sithole and Mokoena in the engine room.
  • Mbule and Foster in the final third.
• Quality Over Results: While Appollis found the net, Khanye remained unimpressed with the winger’s overall contribution, suggesting the team failed to dominate the game despite the win.

“He [Mbule] didn’t look like himself, always receiving the ball while facing our goal—I don’t understand why.” — Junior Khanye

Match Summary: Bafana Bafana vs. Angola

The Road Ahead

Bafana Bafana walked away with the win, but Khanye’s comments suggest that if Hugo Broos’ side is to progress deep into the tournament, the “links” between the midfield and the attack need immediate refinement.