A masterclass from Themba Zwane helped Bafana Bafana bounce right back into Africa Cup of Nations contention on Sunday with a resounding 4-0 Group E win over southern African neighbors Namibia.
The 34-year-old ‘Mshishi’ produced two superb finishes at the Stade Amadou Gon Coulibaly in Korhogo to add to a Percy Tau penalty, while substitute Thapelo Maseko put the icing on the cake in the second half.
This historic victory marked South Africa’s biggest-ever win at an Africa Cup of Nations finals, showcasing the team’s potential and determination. Under the guidance of coach Hugo Broos, Bafana Bafana is now in a strong position to secure a place in the last 16 of the tournament.
[ Bafana Bafana’s Crucial Clash With Namibia In The Africa Cup Of Nations ]
Broos made two changes from the opening 2-0 loss to Mali, with Siyanda Xulu being replaced by Grant Kekana and Thapelo Morena preferred over his Sundowns teammate Thapelo Maseko. This lineup featured a total of eight Masandawana players, highlighting the strength and cohesion within the team.
The match started with a slightly controversial penalty decision in the 12th minute. Morena’s cross struck the arm of Namibia’s Riaan Hanamub, and after consulting VAR, the Algerian referee Youcef Gamouh awarded a penalty to South Africa.
Percy Tau, who had missed a penalty in the previous match, displayed courage and composure as he converted the spot-kick to give the South African side the lead.
Despite falling behind, Namibia immediately pushed for an equalizer. Absalom Iimbondi had a golden opportunity to level the score in the 21st minute but somehow managed to put Deon Hotto’s cross over the bar from point-blank range. Hanamub also came close with a dangerous cross that flew across the face of the Bafana goal.
In the 28th minute, Bafana doubled their lead thanks to the combination of Kekana and Morena. Kekana’s well-executed pass released Morena down the right flank, and his cutback found the feet of Themba Zwane, who confidently slammed the ball into the net.
The dominance continued for South Africa, and in the 38th minute, Zwane showcased his skill once again. A well-timed layoff from Evidence Makgopa allowed Zwane to enter the penalty area and curl in a brilliant finish, further extending Bafana Bafana’s lead.
Despite missed opportunities from Makgopa and Sphephelo Sithole, who headed over the bar from a corner, Bafana Bafana managed to add a fourth goal in the 75th minute.
Thapelo Maseko, who came on as a substitute, demonstrated his speed and precision as he raced past the Namibia defense and slotted a low finish under the body of goalkeeper Lloyd Kazapua.
This comprehensive victory not only showcased the individual brilliance of Themba Zwane but also highlighted the collective strength and determination of the Bafana team.
With another crucial match against Tunisia on the horizon, South Africa has the opportunity to secure their place in the last 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations. A win would guarantee their progression, while even a draw could be enough to see them through.
Under the guidance of coach Hugo Broos, Bafana will look to build on this impressive performance and continue their journey in the tournament.
The team’s success relies on the contributions of each player, and with the likes of Themba Zwane leading the charge, the future looks promising for South African football.
💥 Themba Zwane.
Great finish – made in Chloorkop, served in Korhogo. 👌🏾 #AFCON2023 pic.twitter.com/UqRPLBKui7— Mazola J. Molefe (@superjourno) January 21, 2024
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