Bafana Bafana secure 3-1 victory against Zambia as Afcon preparations continue

BAFANA Bafana continued their Africa Cup of Nations preparations with a confident 3-1 win over Zambia at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday. The performance highlighted the team’s attacking edge and solid defensive structure ahead of the 2025 Afcon in December.

Orlando Pirates winger Tshepang Moremi made his first start in national colours, while midfielder Teboho Mokoena marked a milestone with his 50th cap. The assembled team ensured that Bafana started the match on the front foot, controlling possession and creating early chances through Moremi, Mokoena, Sipho Mbule, and Oswin Appollis.

The breakthrough came just before half-time. Appollis, collecting a through pass from Sphephelo Sithole, slotted a low shot into the bottom corner to give South Africa the lead. Appollis was substituted at half-time for Kimberley-born Mohau Nkota, with Ronwen Williams and Mokoena also making way for Sipho Chaine and Thalente Mbatha.

Zambia responded early in the second half, with Fashion Sankala cutting in from a tight angle, but Bafana regained control. In the 61st minute, the Diamond City's Nkota doubled the lead with a curling strike after a slick pass from Mbule. Just eight minutes later, Nkota provided a gem of a pinpoint corner for Sithole to head in Bafana’s third goal.

One goal slips through

The Chipolopolo pulled one back late through Sabobo Banda, but South Africa held firm, recording their 10th victory over Zambia in 25 meetings.

Bafana’s performance combined structured build-up play with attacking flair. The midfield, led by Mbule, created key opportunities and maintained control in critical areas. Nkota’s two-goal contribution and Sithole’s finishing underlined the team’s ability to convert chances efficiently.

Saturday’s result was a positive step in Bafana’s Afcon preparations, with the squad gaining valuable match rhythm and confidence. The Belgian coach, Hugo Broos, fielded a largely familiar line-up with just two changes from previous matches. Sphephelo Sithole, returning from a year-long knee injury, earned his second start and slotted back into midfield alongside Mokoena.

Substitutions allowed Broos to rotate his squad effectively, ensuring freshness across the team while giving several players valuable minutes. Appollis, Nkota, Chaine, Mbatha, and other substitutes contributed decisively in attack, demonstrating depth in the squad.

Bafana now turn their attention to the upcoming Afcon fixtures in Group B, where they face Angola, Egypt, and Zimbabwe. Saturday’s match offered a clear marker of the team’s readiness and reinforced the importance of structured preparation ahead of the continental tournament.