AFCON Qualifiers: Bafana Bafana Player Ratings in Victory Over South Sudan

Bafana Bafana secured a crucial 3-2 victory over South Sudan in a thrilling Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on September 10th, 2024. The match at Juba Stadium in South Sudan showcased both teams’ attacking prowess and determination. Let’s delve into the individual performances of Bafana Bafana players.

Bafana Bafana Player Ratings:

1. Oswin Appollis – 9/10: Appollis scored two crucial goals to put Bafana in the driving seat. He showed great composure in front of goal and his movement was exceptional.
2. Thalente Mbatha – 9/10: Mbatha was the hero of the day. He came on as a substitute and made an immediate impact once again by scoring the dramatic winning goal in injury time. His composure and technique were impressive.
3. Relebohile Mofokeng (Sub) – 7.5/10: Came on in the second half and added some energy to the attack. Mofokeng’s dribbling caused a few problems for the South Sudan defence.
4. Aubrey Modiba (LB) – 7/10: Provided the assist for Appollis’ first goal and was a constant outlet on the left. Modiba’s delivery from set-pieces was also a threat.
5. Thapelo Morena (RB) – 7/10: A constant threat down the right flank, Morena was unlucky not to score. His energy and willingness to join the attack were commendable, but he needs to improve his defensive positioning.
6. Lyle Foster (ST) – 6.5/10: Unlucky not to score, Foster’s movement and link-up play were excellent. He held the ball up well and created space for his teammates.
7. Sphephelo Sithole (CM) – 6/10: A solid performance in midfield. Sithole kept things ticking over with his passing and broke up play effectively.
8. Teboho Mokoena (CM) – 6/10: Worked hard alongside Sithole but was less influential. Mokoena needs to be more adventurous with his passing.
9. Sipho Chaine (5.5/10): Making his senior international debut, Chaine had a mixed bag. While he couldn’t prevent South Sudan’s two goals, he made some crucial saves to keep Bafana in the game.
10. Siyabonga Ngezana (CB) – 5/10: Conceded a penalty early on and looked shaky at times. Ngezana struggled to cope with South Sudan’s physicality and needs to work on his decision-making.

Overall: It was a scrappy performance from Bafana, but they showed great character to come from behind and win. The defence needs to tighten up, but the attacking players showed their quality. Mbatha’s late winner was a reminder of the importance of having game-changers on the bench.

Related article: Thalente Mbatha’s Late Heroics Secure Thrilling 3-2 win for Bafana Bafana