Ntseki: Early Goal Was Key To Unsettle Egypt

Bafana Bafana’s interim coach, Molefi Ntseki, credited an early goal against Egypt in their African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifying match on Sunday as crucial to disrupting the home side’s rhythm.

South Africa secured a 3-1 victory over Egypt at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia, advancing to the next round of the CHAN qualifiers.

Ntseki’s team won the two-legged tie 4-2 on aggregate, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Bloemfontein. They now progress to the final qualifying round, scheduled for May 2025.

Since assembling two weeks prior, the South African team displayed growing confidence and fluidity. They immediately asserted their dominance, taking control in Egypt’s home stadium. Captain Neo Maema validated the technical team’s confidence by scoring the opening goal from close range in the 15th minute.

South Africa extended their lead to 2-0 through Yandisa Mfolozi in the 26th minute. However, Egypt responded with a goal from Mohamed Abouelenein in the 32nd minute.

Undeterred, the South Africans increased their lead in the 50th minute when Siphelele Luthuli converted a penalty, effectively sealing the victory. The visitors could have scored further goals, and their dominance nearly resulted in a more embarrassing scoreline for the home team.

“I think we won the game from our training sessions because the plan we had really worked out. The players managed to implement it, and they showed a high level of technical endurance,” Ntseki said after the game. 

“That is the ability to execute the technical plan for the longest time in the game, and I think they did that. What also really worked for us today was to score early, to unsettle Egypt in their home ground.  

“Also, the discipline that we had without the ball, I think was the best that one can look back at. Also, the players who were on the bench, players who were in the grandstand, I think they really gave the support we needed.” 

SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan congratulated the team and said they have represented the country well on the continent during their travels. 

“Congratulations to coach Molefi Ntseki, to the HOD Jack Maluleke, captain Neo Maema, the technical staff and all the members of the team. Welldone, we are so proud of what you have achieved. To beat Egypt in Egypt, and by such a comfortable score, is not something many countries can achieve,” the SAFA President said. 

The team will return to SA on Tuesday.