Bafana Scrape Semifinals Spot After Draw Against Mauritius
Bafana Bafana have successfully navigated their way to the semifinals of the COSAFA Cup 2025, following a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Mauritius at the Dr. Molemela Stadium on Tuesday.
The South African national team topped Group A with four points, edging out Mozambique and Zimbabwe, who also accumulated four points, due to a superior goal difference.
The match against Mauritius was a testament to Bafana Bafana’s determination and attacking prowess.
The team started the game on a high note, creating numerous scoring opportunities in the opening 10 minutes.
One notable chance fell to Boitumelo Radiopane in the fifth minute, but Mauritius goalkeeper Kevin Jean-Louis made a crucial save to deny the South Africans.
The Mauritian team threatened to take the lead in the 22nd minute when they were awarded a corner kick, but Lindsay Rose’s header sailed over the crossbar.
In the 28th minute, Bafana Bafana had another excellent scoring opportunity when Gape Moralo delivered a precise cross into the six-yard box. However, Aden McCarthy’s header was poor, and the team failed to capitalize on the chance.
The first half ended goalless, with both teams creating chances but unable to find the back of the net.
In the second half, Bafana Bafana continued to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities. Mduduzi Shabalala’s free kick in the 55th minute was saved by Jean-Louis, denying the South Africans a crucial goal.
Coach Vela Khumalo introduced three players – Victor Letsoalo, Sanele Barns, and Masindi Nemtajela – in the 65th minute in an attempt to strengthen the team’s attack.
The introduction of the trio had a significant impact on Bafana’s attack, as they began to create more dangerous scoring opportunities.
Gape Moralo delivered a corner kick that McCarthy headed towards goal, only for Jean-Louis to make another impressive save.
Despite the team’s best efforts, Bafana Bafana failed to score, and the game ended 0-0.
This semifinal appearance marks a significant turnaround for Bafana Bafana, who failed to reach the semifinals in 2024 after struggling to win in their group.
Under the guidance of coach Va Khumalo, the team will be looking to lift the trophy since 2021 after beating Senegal on penalties.
