Bafana Bafana’s Cosafa Cup Cup journey began in frustrating fashion as a dominant but wasteful performance saw them fall 1-0 to Mozambique at the Toyota Stadium in Mangaung on Wednesday afternoon.
Despite dictating the tempo for large spells of the match, South Africa failed to make their control count on the scoreboard. The youthful side, led by Kaizer Chiefs defender Aden McCarthy as captain, created several clear-cut chances but were ultimately punished for their profligacy.
The early momentum belonged to Vela Khumalo’s charges, who came close to opening the scoring in the first half. Victor Letsoalo rattled the crossbar from close range, and Kabelo Dlamini couldn’t capitalise on the rebound as Mozambique survived a scare.
South Africa’s keeper Thakasani Mbanjwa was also alert, making a key save early on to deny the visitors. The first half ended with Bafana on top but still searching for the breakthrough their play deserved.
That lack of cutting edge proved costly after the break. Mozambique had a goal disallowed by VAR ten minutes into the second half following a deflection off Puso Dithejane, and while Bafana breathed a sigh of relief, it was a warning shot.
Eventually, Mozambique broke the deadlock in the 3rd minute. Mbanjwa did well to save the initial shot from Keyns Abdala, but the rebound fell kindly to Antonio Sumbane, who slotted home the winner, this time contirmed by VAR.
There was more drama late on as Bafana were awarded a penalty with just seven minutes to go. But atter a VAR review, the referee reversed the decision, extinguishing South Africa’s hopes of a dramatic equaliser. Khumalo’s side pushed forward desperately in the closing moments, but Mozambique’s defence held firm to seal the win.
It was a tale of fine margins and missed chances for Bafana who will need to be more clinical when they face Zimbabwe in their next Group A clash on Saturday. – Cosafa.com
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