After a disappointing opening loss, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana put on a dominant display on Sunday night, dismantling Namibia 4-0 in their crucial Group E encounter at the 2023 AFCON.
The two teams came into the match with contrasting fortunes after the opening round of matches in Korhogo.
Namibia were riding high on the crest of a wave after beating Tunisia 1-0. Bafana, on the other hand, knew they had to toil to get their campaign back on track after that 2-0 loss to Mali.
Early drama unfolded in the 10th minute when VAR spotted a handball by Namibia’s Riaan Hanamub in the box. Stepping up with ice in his veins, Percy Tau converted the penalty, burying his demons after missing from the spot in the previous game.
The goal awakened Bafana, who started asserting their control. Themba Zwane capitalised on a beautiful cross from Thapelo Morena to double the lead before the half-hour mark. ‘Mshishi’ wasn’t done yet, adding another in the 40th minute, showcasing clinical finishing and impressive teamwork from the South Africans.
Namibia, who had enjoyed decent possession before the penalty, struggled to find their rhythm after falling behind. Bafana continued to create chances, with Evidence Makgopa narrowly missing a one-on-one and Sphephelo Sithole coming close from a corner.
The second half saw a slightly reserved Bafana, content to manage the comfortable lead.
At the 70-minute mark, head coach Hugo Broos made a double change. With Zwane done with his job for the day, his Mamelodi Sundowns teammate Thapelo Maseko replaced him while Thabang Monare came on for Sphephelo Sithole.
Just four minutes after coming on, Maseko broke loose on the left and added his name to the scoresheet. On a few occasions, Namibia pushed for a consolation goal but lacked the spark to breach the resolute South African defence.
WHAT THE VICTORY MEANS FOR SOUTH AFRICA
The victory is a breath of fresh air for Bafana, sending them roaring back into contention for the Round of 16. With one game remaining, their fate still lies in their own hands.
A win against Tunisia in their final group match will secure their place in the next round.
For the Brave Warriors, who proved their mettle by claiming their first-ever AFCON victory against Tunisia and showed flashes of impressive football, they face an insurmountable task of beating Mali in San Pedro.
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