COSAFA Cup Setback: Bafana Bafana Fall 1‑0 to Mozambique in Opening Group Match
Vela Khumalo’s youthful Bafana Bafana side began their 2025 COSAFA Cup journey on the front foot, dictating play for long stretches of the first half. Captain Aden McCarthy marshalled the back line with authority while Victor Letsoalo rattled the crossbar midway through the period, and Kabelo Dlamini’s follow-up was smothered. Goalkeeper Thakasani Mbanjwa produced a fine reaction save inside the opening quarter-hour to deny Antonio Sumbane, preserving parity at the break despite South Africa’s dominance.
Mozambique thought they had stolen the lead ten minutes after the restart when Sumbane’s effort ricocheted in off Puso Dithejane, only for VAR to rule the play offside. Khumalo introduced Mduduzi Shabalala in search of fresh impetus, yet it was the Mambas who punished a moment of hesitancy in the 73rd minute: Mbanjwa parried Keyns Abdala’s drive straight to Sumbane, who converted at the second time of asking. This time VAR confirmed the goal. South Africa believed they had earned a late penalty, but a pitch-side review overturned the decision, leaving the hosts empty-handed.
Aden McCarthy led by example, showing composure and aerial strength. Thakasani Mbanjwa pulled off several key saves despite the decisive rebound, while Sanele Barns remained lively down the flank, tirelessly probing Mozambique’s defence.
The narrow defeat leaves South Africa needing a positive response on Saturday afternoon when they face Zimbabwe. With only the group winners guaranteed progression, Khumalo’s men must turn promising build-up play into goals to keep their COSAFA Cup hopes alive.
Starting XI vs Mozambique
Mbanjwa; Dithejane, McCarthy (c), Okon, Moralo; Dlamini, Letlapa, Sebelebele; Mkhize, Barns; Letsoalo
Substitutes Used
Shabalala (for Mkhize, 59’)
