Bafana Bafana B side failed to impress again, drawing 0-0 against Botswana in their COSAFA Cup Group A match at the Isaac Wolfson Stadium on Saturday.

Despite a strong showing from the home crowd, the match lacked the spark needed for a goal. Bafana Bafana dominated possession but were let down by their finishing.

This was a repeat of last year’s group stage encounter, where South Africa emerged victorious 2-1 before claiming the bronze medal. Both teams will be frustrated with the missed opportunity to take the lead in Group A, especially after the earlier goalless draw between Mozambique and Eswatini earlier.

The exciting Asanele Velebayi impressed on the right wing for South Africa, keeping the fans entertained with his dribbling skills. With Cape Town Spurs’ relegation to the Motsepe Foundation Championship last season, Velebayi’s future remains a question mark.

Bafana B continued their attacking approach in the first half, with Devin Titus providing support on the opposite flank. However, the dominance failed to translate into goals, and the teams went into halftime scoreless.

Both sides needed a strong start to the second half, particularly Bafana B after their opening draw with Mozambique. Botswana, who had also drawn their first game against Eswatini, were equally eager for a win.

With Mozambique and Eswatini drawing 0-0 earlier, both Bafana B and Botswana had a chance to lead Group A. The best chance of the second half fell to Botswana, but Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Mondli Mpoto made a crucial save to deny them. Despite controlling the game for most of the match, South Africa’s dominance didn’t translate into goals. Their numerous crosses were effectively dealt with by the Botswana defense.

The match lacked the creativity needed to break the deadlock, despite a sizable and enthusiastic crowd. Velebayi almost provided that spark with a skillful turn and a dangerous cross, but it ultimately resulted in a corner.

With all four teams in Group A tied on two points, the final group match to be played at the same will determine the group winner and runners-up. Currently, Mozambique leads the group, followed by South Africa.