Mosimane urges Bafana to focus on qualifying for AFCON

Following a disappointing 2-2 draw against Kenya last Friday, Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane stressed the importance of concentrating on their ultimate goal: qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Mosimane expressed frustration as his team missed a chance to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory, with Ryan Ogam equalizing in stoppage time.

Despite this setback, Mosimane remains optimistic that South Africa can still secure their position in the AFCON. "For me, it's to stay where we are on the log and finish where we are on the log," Mosimane said. "It's still in our hands."

Bafana Bafana will face Kenya again in the return leg on Tuesday in Nairobi, with Mosimane hoping his team will capitalize on their chances to stay at the top of Group D. The coach emphasized that simply playing good football or being clinical isn't enough; they must take the chances presented to them. "Two goals are not enough.

Playing good football is not enough. Pretty football is not all about that. You need to take the chances," Mosimane stated. He acknowledged that Kenya proved they don't need much to upset a stronger team, using their few chances effectively. McCarthy, the Kenya coach, warned Bafana Bafana to prepare for a more aggressive performance when they return to Nairobi.

"When we return home, things will be different; I'm uncertain if South Africa will adjust to Kenya's altitude and climate," McCarthy said. He believes his players are familiar with the local conditions, and they will aim to take the game to Bafana Bafana from the very first minute.