Bafana Bafana beat Benin to keep World Cup qualification dream alive

Bafana Bafana and coach Hugo Broos seem to be a 'match made in heaven'. And that’s why they have every reason to believe they’ll reach the promised land – the FIFA World Cup 2026!

Bafana secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Benin in their sixth World Cup qualifier at Stade Félix Houphouët Boigny, Ivory Coast, remaining top of Group C with 13 points, five ahead of the latter, who are tied on points with second-placed Rwanda.

Broos needed to win this match at the neutral venue in Ivory Coast at all costs to keep their qualification campaign on track. The odds and past fortunes tipped them to do just that. After all, they had fond memories of this ground, having won their bronze medal in the last edition of the Africa Cup of Nations at the same venue.

South African clubs Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies also won their respective CAF Champions League crowns at this stadium. But Bafana needed to win here for a broader reason. They came into the match on a bit of a low – they were without midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who was suspended.

Mokoena’s absence not only weakened the squad but also sparked controversy, as some believed Bafana could be docked points after fielding him in the 2-0 win over Lesotho in Polokwane.

After all, he had entered that game on the back of two yellow cards received against Benin and Zimbabwe previously. However, since Lesotho did not play under protest in that game, the situation has become more complex. As a result, all eyes will be on FIFA’s decision regarding the matter.

Broos, though, had a trick up his sleeve, replacing Mokoena with Thalente Mbatha, while Bathusi Aubaas came in for Jayden Adams in the starting line-up.

As a result, Bafana struggled to find their rhythm early on, even though they dominated possession while failing to convert their chances in the final third.

Lyle Foster led the line, but much of the spotlight was on Percy Tau and Relebohile Mofokeng. Tau had put in a strong performance against Lesotho, keeping their defence on their toes, yet he still couldn’t find the net to silence his critics.

His involvement in this clash was significant as well. He nearly scored in the first half, but his tame shot was cleared by the hosts, who understood the importance of keeping a clean sheet. A goal would have meant the world to Tau, crowning his 50th cap for the national team in style after his rollercoaster international career.

Bafana’s chances were few and far between, but Mofokeng was their livewire in the first half, attacking Benin’s defence with pace and trickery.

The 20-year-old had been Bafana’s standout performer last week, scoring the opener and earning the Player of the Match award in his first start for the national team.

Mofokeng and his teammates went into the break still goalless, despite dominating possession. However, there was a strong belief that they would find a breakthrough in the second half. And, indeed, Broos’ men came out flying after the break. Aubaas had an early shot at goal, but it did not find the back of the net.

They didn't have to wait long for the breakthrough, though, as Foster’s effort crossed the line by a narrow margin following a pinpoint cross from Fawaaz Basadien down the flank.

Bafana were ahead, but they still had to ensure they either defended their lead or doubled their advantage.

They executed their game plan perfectly, with Adams coming off the bench to head home his second goal in as many matches after connecting with a cross from fellow substitute Oswin Appollis.

It was a perfect day at the office, further endearing Broos and his team to their fans as they continue to deliver results. It wasn't always like this, though. Broos wasn’t initially everyone’s cup of tea, as many believed he had taken the Bafana head coaching role as a final career move.

Now, with each victory, his detractors are left eating humble pie.

SCORERS

Benin 0

South Africa (0) 2

Foster 55, Adams 84