Thalente Mbatha once again emerged as the hero for Bafana Bafana, scoring the winning goal in their 3-2 victory over South Sudan in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at Juba Stadium on Tuesday.

With the match seemingly heading towards a 2-2 draw, Mbatha unleashed a powerful left-footed shot in the 95th minute on the edge of the box to secure the win for Bafana. This followed his previous goal against Uganda in the opening qualifier that secured a draw on Friday.

Despite having numerous chances to win the game, Bafana needed Mbatha’s late intervention. Thapelo Morena missed several opportunities, while substitutes Elias Mokwana and Relebohile Mofokeng were also unable to convert their chances.

Bafana coach Hugo Broos started the match well, with Teboho Mokoena narrowly missing a shot. They adapted quickly to the synthetic pitch, and the decision to start Sipho Chaine in goal proved to be a good one. Despite Bafana starting better, defender Siyabonga Ngezana conceded a penalty in the 13^th minute by pulling down South Sudan’s captain Tito Odong. Odong dusted off himself and slotted the penalty.  

However, Sudan’s joy was short-lived as Bafana Bafana hit back with an equalizer two minutes later. Aubrey Modiba was released by captain Themba Zwane and the left-back delivered a pin-point cross to Oswin Appollis – who strode forward before riffling at the far corner, to score his first goal in the national team. 

However, Bafana Bafana squandered several chances to extend their advantage, including a missed opportunity from Mokoena. Another chance went begging for Bafana when Morena’s shot struck the crossbar.

Just before halftime, Bafana doubled their lead through Appollis, who converted a rebound from Lyle Foster’s shot.

In the second half, Bafana continued to dominate possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances. South Sudan equalized through Yuel Kuach, who capitalized on a defensive lapse from Bafana in the 57th minute.

Bafana coach Broos introduced Mofokeng, Mbatha, and Mokwana in search of a winning goal. Mofokeng and Mokwana had chances to score but were denied by the South Sudan goalkeeper Mawith. However, Mbatha’s late strike secured the victory for Bafana, moving them to second place in Group K with four points. But the best player for Bafana was Modiba, who created both goals for Bafana on the left-hand side and was the thorn throughout the match.