Pitso explains how Mbule and Appollis can lift Bafana to AFCON glory

Orlando Pirates duo Sipho Mbule and Oswin Appollis have been tipped to create a lethal partnership for Bafana Bafana at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

South Africa are set to be among the 24 teams at the 2025 tournament kicking off on Sunday December 21 in Morocco, running up to January 18, and after finishing third at the 2023 edition, nothing less is expected.

Bafana Bafana have even been termed as one of the dark horses to win the tournament and according to Mbule’s former youth coach Pitso Mokoena, the Pirates star could be the man to lift South Africa to AFCON glory if his link-up with Appollis continues.

“The talent is there to boost the understanding of each other. Well, if you could see Appollis and Mohau Nkota when they play with Sipho, they bring out something special; they are really talented,” Mokoena told FARPost, referring to Mbule’s great assists for Appollis and Mohau Nkota during Bafana’s win over Zambia in November.

What makes Mbule and Appollis special?

“I will emphasise that the understanding among these boys [Appollis and Sipho] is the main factor. I also think that their experience playing together at Orlando Pirates works to their advantage.”

Mokoena feels Bafana are lucky that Mbule and Appollis both play at the same club as that understating at Pirates can be recreated at national team for the benefit of Broos’ side.

“Now, their understanding extends to the national team level. When you look at it, you have Teboho Mokoena next to him [Sipho], and the quality of the other players makes it a lot easier. However, the combination comes from the club level, and it really goes a long way and translates into the national team,” he added.

Mbule and Appollis are key players for Broos and will likely make the starting XI when South Africa open their campaign against Angola on Monday December 22.