Talking points as Bafana defeat Benin in WC qualifiers opener
Bafana Bafana got their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C qualifying campaign to a good start when they edged Benin 2-1 on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Percy Tau opened the scoresheet two minutes into the game, while Khuliso Mudau doubled the lead at the stroke of half-time. For the visitors, Steve Mounie pulled one back in the 70th minute.
Here are the talking points as the 1996 AFCON champions outclassed Benin.
EVIDENCE MAKGOPA STARTS AS BAFANA DEFEAT BENIN
Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa made a return to the Bafana fold after a year, starting in attack for the hosts. His absence from the national team was due to a long-term injury. The 23-year-old’s last game was against Morocco in the 2024 AFCON qualifiers.
POOR FAN TURNOUT AT MOSES MABHIDA
Once again, the national team played in front of a disappointing crowd. The KZN supporters didn’t come out in their large numbers to rally behind the team.
On Friday, Stadium Management confirmed that 10,000 tickets had been purchased.
CLINICAL BAFANA BAFANA IN FRONT OF GOAL
It was a dream start for the home side, as they opened the scoring as early as two minutes. Talisman Percy Tau put the hosts ahead following a beautiful team play.
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Khuliso Mudau made it 2-0 just moments before the first half ended finishing from close range.
Of course, Bafana could have scored more goals, had they taken their chances.
UNCAPPED PLAYERS DIDN’T FEATURE
Coach Hugo Broos didn’t use any of the new players who were expecting their national team debuts. These are namely; Bradley Cross, Thapelo Xoki, Jayden Adams, Elias Mokwana and Oswin Appollis.
Bafana defeating Benin saw them climb to the summit of the group with three points after the first round of the matches.
In other first matches in the group, Nigeria were frustrated to a 1-1 draw against Lesotho, while Rwanda and Zimbabwe played out to a 0-0 draw.
South Africa’s next assignment will see them on the road as they will take on Rwanda away from home. Kickoff on Tuesday at Huye Stadium is set for 3pm.
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