Samukelo Kabini strikes late as Pitso Mosimane begins second Bafana spell with victory over Guinea

In a thrilling encounter at the Orlando Amstel Arena, South Africa secured a 2-1 victory over Guinea, marking Pitso Mosimane's triumphant return as head coach of the Bafana Bafana national team. The match, which commenced at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday, set the tone for South Africa's journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

South Africa took the lead in the 30th minute through Ime Okon, who capitalized on a set-piece from close range, breaking the deadlock for his German-based club side. The early dominance of the Bafana Bafana side set the stage for a competitive match, although they had the opportunity to extend their advantage within the first ten minutes when Relebohile Mofokeng was presented with a promising chance, but fell short in the conversion.

Guinea, however, demonstrated resilience and determination, equalizing in the 69th minute. Seydouba Cisse, a Guinea forward, seized an opportunity from a well-placed free-kick, finding the back of the net with a precise shot from close range. The equalizer brought Guinea closer to the top of their group, adding an edge to the match.

In a pivotal moment, Mosimane made tactical substitutions, and the bench responded by injecting much-needed energy and creativity into the team. Samukelo Kabini, a substitute, capitalized on his opportunity in the 77th minute. Kabini, with a composed finish, scored the equalizing goal, sending the Orlando Stadium crowd into a frenzy. His late intervention proved decisive, securing all three points for South Africa and providing Mosimane with a triumphant return to the national team scene.

While Guinea pushed for another equalizer in the closing stages of the match, Bafana Bafana held firm, exhibiting their resilience and controlling large portions of the contest. The result gave Mosimane a winning start as he embarks on his second spell as head coach, signaling a promising beginning for the Bafana Bafana team as they prepare to embark on the journey towards the 2027 AFCON.