Bafana on the brink of AFCON elimination

Bafana Bafana were held to a 1-1 draw by Senegal in their second Group C match in Mongoma, Equatorial Guinea.

The South Africans started well but failed to capitalise on their early chances. With the scores level at 0-0 going into halftime, it was left to Oupa Manyisa to score the opening goal for Bafana. The Orlando Pirates midfielder kept a cool head to finish off a low, uncleared cross from Anele Ngcongca in the 47th minute.

Shortly thereafter, Kari Mbodji leveled matters for Senegal, slotting Mame Biram Diouf’s free kick into the net by way of a powerful header in the 60th minute. Tokelo Rantie threatened in the latter stages of the match but was ultimately unable to convert any goal-scoring opportunities.
In the other Group C match that took place on Friday, Ghana managed to sneak past Algeria by beating the Desert Foxes 1-0 with a late stoppage time goal. Ghana, who had lost their opening match against Senegal, face South Africa next in their final group match.

After a 3-1 loss to Algeria and the draw with Senegal, South Africa will now need to beat Ghana in their final group match if they are to avoid elimination and proceed to the quarterfinals. Senegal top Group C with four points, while Algeria and Ghana are second and third with three points. Bafana Bafana are in fourth place with a sole point from their two outings.