Bafana Fall To Mozambique In COSAFA Cup Opener

Bafana Bafana’s 2025 COSAFA Cup campaign got off to a disappointing start as they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Mozambique at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.

Despite dominating the early stages of the match, the South African team failed to capitalize on their chances, ultimately succumbing to a well-taken goal from Mozambique’s Antonio Sumbane in the 73rd minute.

The match began brightly for Bafana Bafana, with the team creating several scoring opportunities in the first 10 minutes.

However, they were unable to convert these chances into goals, with Thakasani Mbanjwa making crucial saves to deny Mozambique’s Antonio Sumbane and Baptista Francisco.

Despite Kabelo Dlamini’s excellent corner kick in the 23rd minute, Victor Letsoalo and Aden McCarthy failed to connect with the ball.

In the second half, Bafana Bafana continued to press Mozambique’s defense, but their efforts were thwarted by the visitors’ resolute defending.

A potential own goal by Puso Dithejane was ruled out for offside in the 56th minute, and shortly after, coach Vela Khumalo introduced Mduduzi Shabalala to bolster the midfield.

Mozambique’s Sumbane eventually broke the deadlock with a well-taken goal in the 73rd minute, capitalizing on a rebound after Mbanjwa made a great save on Keyns Abdala’s shot.

In response, Khumalo introduced Boitumelo Radiopane, Wandile Duba, and Mokobelo Ramabu to strengthen the attack.

The trio’s introduction had an immediate impact, with Bafana Bafana putting significant pressure on Mozambique’s defense and earning a penalty in the 80th minute. However, the referee overturned the decision after consulting VAR.

Despite creating numerous chances in the final minutes, Bafana Bafana was unable to equalize, and the match ended 1-0 in favor of Mozambique. The loss means that Bafana Bafana will need to regroup and prepare for their next match against Zimbabwe at Toyota Stadium on Saturday at 15:00.