South Africa Edge Guinea to Open AFCON Qualifying Campaign With Victory
South Africa began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Guinea on Saturday, securing three points in a tightly contested encounter in Soweto.
The hosts took the lead in the 30th minute when defender Ime Okon reacted quickly to a loose ball in the box and fired past Guinea goalkeeper Soumaila Sylla. Guinea responded strongly after the break and drew level in the 69th minute through Seydouba Cisse, who capitalised after South Africa failed to clear a free kick.
South Africa regained the lead eight minutes later when substitute Samukele Kabini broke forward and finished past Sylla at his near post. The goal, his first for the national team, proved decisive as the hosts held on for the win.
The result puts South Africa at the top of Group D after the opening fixtures, giving Bafana Bafana an early advantage in the qualifying race. The victory also marked a positive start to Pitso Mosimane’s return to the South African bench.i
