Bafana’s Mosimane coy on Kabini impact
'We coaches sometimes want to sound intelligent because a goal was scored,' said the Bafana head coach.
Pitso Mosimane, the Bafana Bafana coach, avoided taking credit for the impact made by Samukele Kabini, who scored the winning goal in Bafana Bafana's 2-1 victory over Guinea on Saturday. The match took place at the Orlando Amstel Arena, marking the team's opening Group D qualifier for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Kabini's goal came in the 77th minute, following a physical challenge where he held off a challenge and struck a precise low shot past Seydouba Sylla.
Mosimane justified bringing on Kabini early, partly due to an injury to Aubrey Modiba, who later confirmed a tight hamstring. Despite this, Kabini was chosen over Mamelodi Sundowns' in-form Fawaaz Basadien. Mosimane stated that he didn't want to take credit, emphasizing that coaches often try to appear knowledgeable when a goal is scored. He noted that while Badadien is also a good left back, Kabini has been performing at a high level and deserves a chance to play.
Kabini, 22, has been a consistent presence for Norwegian top-flight side Molde FK this season. Although he is not a prolific goalscorer, with only one goal and one assist in 20 appearances across all competitions, this was his first goal for Bafana. Central defender Ime Okon also scored his first goal for his country in the match. Bafana showed promise with Iqraam Rayners and Yanele Mbuthuma, who provided the assist for Kabini's goal.
Mosimane acknowledged the challenge Bafana faces in converting chances into goals, noting that two out of six recent opportunities were scored. He praised Mbuthuma for his effort, even though he missed a late, decent chance to make it 3-1. The coach also highlighted Rayners' missed opportunity, stating that the ball nearly went in for him.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
