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Hugo Broos, Patrick Maswanganyi and Thapelo Morena of Bafana Bafana GOAL GFX
Celine Abrahams

Do Bafana Bafana have what it takes to finish perfect and seal unbeaten Africa Cup of Nations Qualification in Cape Town?

The South Africans topped Group K after their Uganda victory, but the challenge now is to keep their unbeaten Afcon qualifying streak alive.

Bafana Bafana headed into matchday five knowing their ticket to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was already secured, thanks to South Sudan’s stunning 3-2 victory over Congo a day before. 

However, Hugo Broos’ men refused to let qualification distract them from their mission. Facing Uganda, their focus remained unwavering as they aimed to claim victory and strengthen their grip on the top spot in Group K. With a clinical 2-0 win, thanks to goals from substitutes Thapelo Morena and Patrick Maswanganyi, the South Africans extended their unbeaten run, proving their determination to dominate the qualification stage.

Here, GOAL examines the influence of Morena and Maswanganyi, who have stepped up amid debates about filling injured Themba Zwane’s void, and the team’s final task in Cape Town.

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  • Thapelo Morena & Khuliso Mudau, Bafana Bafana, June 2024Backpagepix

    Morena’s brilliance key for Bafana

    Thapelo Morena, known for his blistering pace and attacking versatility, was instrumental in breaking the deadlock.

    Coming on as a substitute, his goal early into the second half not only settled the nerves but also underlined his importance to coach Broos' tactical setup. 

    Morena’s ability to exploit spaces on the flanks continues to provide South Africa with a crucial outlet in their attacking play.  

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  • Patrick Maswanganyi, Orlando PiratesBackpage

    Maswanganyi silences doubters

    Patrick Maswanganyi silenced his critics with a composed finish to seal the win.

    Scoring his first goal in national team colours, the attacking midfielder stepped up in the absence of injured Themba Zwane, proving he could handle the pressure of international football.

    Dubbed ‘Tito’ by fans, Maswanganyi has faced questions about his readiness, but this performance could mark a turning point in his national team career.  

  • Themba Zwane, Bafana BafanaBackpage

    ‘Tito’s’ role in a post-Zwane era

    ‘Mshishi’s’ injury has left a creative void in the squad, but Maswanganyi’s confidence-boosting performance in Kampala hints at a promising future. 

    While comparisons to Zwane may be premature, ‘Tito’s’ potential as a playmaker is clear. With time and confidence, he could grow into the role and become a central figure in South Africa’s quest for continental success.  

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  • Hugo Broos, Bafana BafanaBackpage

    Broos’ blueprint: Bafana’s performance reflects growth & resilience

    Five games, 11 points and no losses - Bafana’s qualification run has been a testament to their growth under the Belgian mentor. 

    The team has shown resilience and adaptability, the mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talents has created a balanced squad capable of grinding out results away from home.  


  • Oswin Appollis and Kenneth Semakula, South Africa vs UgandaBackpage

    Cape Town awaits: South Sudan showdown

    As Bafana prepare to travel back home to host South Sudan at the DHL Stadium on Tuesday, the focus will be on maintaining their unbeaten record and finishing the group stage in style. 

    The win against Uganda has not only strengthened their position at the top of Group K but has certainly boosted the team’s confidence, setting the stage for a potential unbeaten run throughout the qualifiers. The game offers an opportunity for the team to showcase their attacking prowess in front of home fans, with a relaxed yet determined approach expected given their secured position at the top of the group. A victory here would solidify their dominance and send a strong message ahead of the tournament in 2025 and Broos would have his eye firmly fixed on guiding his team to new heights.


  • Bathusi Aubaas and Aubrey Modiba, Bafana BafanaBackpage

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