Coach Pitso Mosimane begins Africa Cup qualifying with South Africa win — TimesLIVE

In South Africa, the national football team defeated Guinea 2-1 in the opening match of Africa Cup of Nations qualifying. The match at Orlando Stadium was Pitso Mosimane’s first game after returning to the national team.

As TimesLIVE reports, both of South Africa’s goals were scored by defenders — Ime Okon and Samukele Kabini. With the win, the team known as Bafana Bafana topped Group D with three points.

Okon scores after a corner

The hosts started the game more actively and put pressure on Guinea’s defence. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams retained his place in the starting line-up and led the team onto the pitch wearing the captain’s armband. Aubrey Modiba, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Olwethu Makhanya and Okon also played in defence.

The scoring was opened in the 31st minute: Okon scored from close range after Guinea’s players failed to clear the ball following a corner. Before the break, South Africa had several more chances but did not extend their lead.

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Kabini scores the decisive goal

In the 55th minute, Modiba left the pitch and Kabini came on in his place. Soon afterwards, Guinea equalised: Seydouba Cisse scored from close range after a free-kick routine.

In the 68th minute, Orlando Pirates forward Yanela Mbutuma came onto the pitch. He later provided an assist for Kabini, who beat goalkeeper Soumaila Sylla and secured a home win for South Africa.

In their next qualifying match, Mosimane’s team will play Eritrea in Egypt. In the other Group D match, Eritrea drew 1-1 with Kenya, which is a co-host of the Africa Cup of Nations.