Bafana Bafana are on the brink of a significant milestone. If they successfully navigate their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan on Tuesday, they will clinch the top spot in their group for the first time in a decade.

A victory over South Sudan at DHL Stadium (kick-off 18:00) would mirror their achievement in the 2015 AFCON qualifiers under coach Shakes Mashaba. Even a draw could suffice, provided Uganda falters against Congo in their concurrent match.

Hugo Broos’ side currently leads Group K with 11 points, one point ahead of Uganda. Their 2-0 victory over Uganda showcased a mature performance, capitalizing on chances created on Friday.

In 2015, Bafana finished with 12 points, two clear of Congo. Notably, they drew both matches against Nigeria, the defending champions, who ultimately failed to qualify.

Bafana’s 2-2 draw against Nigeria in the final group stage match, secured by Tokelo Rantie’s brace, proved crucial. Despite Nigeria’s spirited comeback, Congo’s victory over Sudan ensured Bafana’s top spot.

Coach Broos remains determined to secure a win against South Sudan, emphasizing the importance of not underestimating the opposition. He acknowledges that while the game may appear straightforward, it could pose challenges if not approached with the necessary respect.

“Therefore again, we take this game very seriously,” said Broos. 

“Somebody told in the last couple of days that you have a comfortable game against South Sudan, but don’t underestimate that team, and it should be a lack of respect for the opponents if we do. 

“If you have no respect for your opponents, you can be sure that things can go wrong and I’m not afraid of that, because I have been with these guys for few years and I know what the mentality is from those guys and the mindset, and they will be ready on Tuesday to win that game again.  

“We will do everything to win that game because otherwise, we will not win it, you can be sure. It can be an easy game, but it can also be a very tough game and we have to be prepared for that.”  

A victory over South Sudan would not only secure the group top spot but also mark Bafana’s first undefeated AFCON qualifying campaign since 2019 under Stuart Baxter. Interestingly, Nigeria was also in that group, with Bafana taking four points from them but ultimately finishing second.

Bafana’s home record in AFCON qualifiers is impressive, with an unbeaten streak of 19 matches dating back to 2007. As they prepare to host South Sudan at DHL Stadium, they will aim to continue this strong form and avoid repeating the disappointment of their 2007 loss to Zambia when Christ Katongo scored hat-trick in the first half at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town.