Bafana Bafana face a must-win encounter against Eswatini in their final Group A match of the COSAFA Cup. The clash takes place on Tuesday (15:00) at the Isaac Wolfson Stadium in Gqeberha.

A semifinal berth hangs in the balance after Bafana drew their previous matches against Mozambique (1-1) and Botswana (0-0). Coach Helman Mkhalele acknowledged the pressure, stating,

“We have to make sure we bounce back and win our game because if we don’t get a win, any results other than a win could send us home,” said Mkhalele. 

“We might not know what will be happening in the other group game between Mozambique and Botswana.”  

Mkhalele plans to shake up the lineup following the Botswana draw.

“It is still in our hands, and it is crucial that we do business against Eswatini by making sure that we score more goals, and we don’t concede, because the goal difference could become a factor,” he said. 

“It is important that we keep a clean sheet, and we score as many goals as possible.” 

The coach highlighted the need for better support for striker Thabang Sibanyoni. “And for us to be able to score those many goals, I believe that we will need to make sure that we beef up our striking force and more especially give Sibanyoni the support that he needs upfront as he has won almost each and every high ball played to him. Now we need someone who will anticipate those high balls and use them effectively.”