Bafana Bafana soared to the top of Group K, securing their place in the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. Afrik-Foot delves into the thrilling journey of these six matches.
1 – Hugo Broos makes history
Hugo Broos has etched his name in South African football history by becoming the first coach to qualify Bafana Bafana for two consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
After leading the team to a third-place finish at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, he has now secured their spot in the 2025 edition in Morocco.
2 – Bafana more stronger at home
Under Broos's guidance, Bafana Bafana have transformed their home ground into a fortress. Since his appointment, the team has remained unbeaten at home, winning 14 and drawing four of their 18 matches across all competitions.
In the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, they won two and drew one of their home games, demonstrating their dominance on home soil.
3 – Percy Tau missing all six matches
Al Ahly star Percy Tau has been notably absent from the Bafana Bafana squad under Broos. The coach has expressed concerns about Tau's mental state following criticism received at the previous AFCON.
Broos believes that a change of club environment could help Tau regain his form and confidence. Tau's last appearance for Bafana was in the World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria while he was an unused substitute against Zimbabwe.
4 – Themba Zwane injury
A significant blow to Bafana Bafana came when Themba Zwane picked up Achilles tendon injury during the away match against Congo Brazzaville.
The injury required surgery, and Mamelodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi estimated a four-month recovery period. Zwane missed the crucial qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan.
5 – Bafana having to do without Lyle Foster in last three matches
Burnley striker Lyle Foster's injury during the 5-0 victory over Congo Brazzaville curtailed his contribution to the qualifying campaign.
The 24-year-old, who had already netted two goals, was sidelined for a few weeks.
6 – The rise of Patrick Maswanganyi
In the absence of key players, Patrick Maswanganyi seized the opportunity to shine for Bafana Bafana. Often compared to Themba Zwane, Maswanganyi seems to have impressed coach Hugo Broos immensely.
He stepped up against Uganda, scoring his first goal in South African colours. But he excelled with a strong showing against South Sudan, scoring his second international goal.
7 – Strong forward line
The absence of Lyle Foster was mitigated by the impressive performances of Iqraam Rayners.
The Sundowns striker has quickly adapted to the national team, contributing two goals to the qualifying campaign. When Rayners isn't available, Evidence Makgopa provides a reliable option, combining offensive threat with defensive work-rate.
8 – Thalente Mbatha coming in Bafana rescue on two occasions
A fresh face in the Bafana Bafana squad, Mbatha has already made a significant impact.
His late heroics against Uganda and South Sudan have been instrumental in securing crucial points.
9 – Bathusi Aubaas, perfect replacement for Sphephelo Sithole
Bathusi Aubaas has formed a strong partnership with Teboho Mokoena, their club chemistry translating seamlessly to the national team.
Aubaas has been a dependable performer, filling the void left by the injured Sphephelo Sithole.
10 – Mofokeng yet to start
Despite his impressive performances as a substitute, the 20-year-old Mofokeng has yet to start for Bafana Bafana.
Broos believes that the young midfielder still needs to develop physically to compete against stronger opponents.
