Bafana Dumped Out Of African Nations Championship After Dramatic Draw

In a dramatic turn of events, Bafana Bafana have been eliminated from the African Nations Championship after a late collapse saw them draw 3-3 with Uganda at the Nelson Mandela Stadium on Monday.

With just three minutes left, Bafana appeared to have secured the win, holding a comfortable 3-1 lead. However, Uganda was awarded two late penalties, which they converted to salvage a draw. Following the final whistle, Mamelodi Sundowns defender Malibongwe Khoza was shown a red card for using foul language toward the referee.

The emotional toll of the result was visible, with Bafana Bafana players such as Wayde Jooste and Keegan Johannes seen in tears.

The match started well for the South African side. Keagan Dolly’s early shot was impressively palmed away by goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa. Despite Bafana’s positive start, it was Uganda who scored first. Jude Ssemugabi beat goalkeeper Samkelo Xulu with a low, hard shot in the 32nd minute to give the Cranes the lead.

Trailing at halftime, Bafana knew they had to respond. The equalizer came in the 56th minute when Neo Maema’s free kick was flapped away by Mutakubwa, and Kwanda Mngonyama headed the ball into the path of Ramahlwe Mphahlele, who fired home from close range.

Six minutes later, Bafana turned the game on its head. A quick throw-in by Dolly caught Uganda off guard, and Thabiso Kutumela raced clear before firing low to give his side the lead for the first time. The South Africans’ lead meant they temporarily moved to the top of their group with eight points.

Dolly could have added a third, but Mutakubwa made a crucial save when Dolly was clean through on goal. A major blow for Bafana came when goalscorer Mphahlele was forced off the field with an injury.

Phillip Ndlondlo appeared to seal the victory for Bafana, curling a shot into the top corner in the 83rd minute. The goal was set up by Kutumela, who delivered a cross that troubled Mutakubwa off his line. The ball was recycled by Dolly to set up Ndlondlo. The fans in Kampala were left stunned.

However, the drama was far from over. With four minutes remaining, Uganda was awarded a penalty after Johannes kicked Ivan Ahimbisibwe in the chest. Allan Okello converted the spot kick to make it 3-2.

In optional time, Uganda was awarded a second penalty after Hilary Mukundane’s shot was blocked by Menzi Masuku’s hand. The decision was reviewed by VAR, and as the drama unfolded, coach Ntseki had to come onto the field to calm his players.

Rogers Ochark then stepped up to slot the penalty, making the final score 3-3.

The late collapse means South Africa has dropped to third place and is now out of the competition.