Downs Trio in the Scoresheet of Bafana Bafana’s Five Star Victory

The South African Men’s National team are basking in the euphoria of a sweet five-star performance after defeating Congo Brazaville 5-0 on Friday evening at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha. Three of the five goals were netted by Mamelodi Sundowns trio, Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas and Iqraam Rayners. It was also a celebratory day for the Club’s captain, Themba Zwane, as he earned his 50th cap for the National Team.

Coach Hugo Broos’ charges found their rhythm nice and early in what was a full house affair. They had plenty of the ball, unsettling Congo with dangerous chances. Five minutes into the game, Bafana had two clear-cut chances which might have rattled the Congo defence squad.

After five minutes, the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium saw a goal from Teboho Mokeona. The goal came from a corner, where Mokoena headed it into the box to open the scoring. Congo were quick to respond but the off-side flag was raised, despite Ronwen Williams having saved the ball.

Just before the half-hour mark, Mokoena, who was named the man of the match, completed his brace with a smashing strike that shook the stadium. As the first stanza was coming to an end, Bathusi Aubaas made it three for South Africa. Oswin Appolis served another corner kick, the ball being found by Aubaas. The Downs midfield maestro shot to the bottom of the corner to extend Bafana’s lead. Congo had one big chance before the half time whistle was blown but it was off target to keep the score at 3-0 at the break.

Upon the return of play, Congo looked more dangerous, as they opened the proceedings with a semi-chance, after making a defence splitting pass to the forefront, but Williams came out to clear the ball on time.

After knocking on the door for a while, a fourth goal that came from Lyle Foster was seen. It was a good play between him and Elias Mokwana. Mokwana had flicked the ball over the goalkeeper to find Foster. Foster then made a quick run with two defenders behind him to shoot on the 51st minute.

Iqraam Rayners also made sure his name was on the scoresheet after coming in for an injured Foster. On the left flank, while Congo’s goalkeeper tried to clear the ball, Rayners’ pressing worked in his favour as he managed to block it from leaving the danger zone. Rayners then kicked it into the clear net.

In the final stages of the match, Congo Brazaville looked dangerous in the box three times, with three clear-cut chances and three times Williams came out to make crucial saves for his side. Congo looked for a strong ending but there was none for them as the party ended with a 5-0 scoreline.

The return fixture between the two sides will take place on Tuesday the 15th of October 2024 at the Stade Alphonse Massamba-Débat in Congo. Kick-off has been scheduled for 18H00.

1 Response
  1. Philani

    Congratulations for our players who represent the country with distinction. But Hugo Broos must respect sundowns decisions to discipline their players. He must not intervine. Because these players are irresponsible when the Team is not doing well the first person to account is the coach.

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