Bafana look for strong performance in return against Congo

The national men’s team hopes to put on another stellar display of football in the return encounter with Congo at the Stade Alphonse Massamba-Débat in Congo at 18:00 on Tuesday .

The game is on the heels of South Africa putting on a spectacular performance to beat Congo Brazzaville 5-0 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Friday evening.

Mamelodi Sundowns trio Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, and Iqraam Rayners accounted for three of the five goals.

The victory was made even sweeter as Sundowns captain Themba Zwane earned his 50th cap for the national team.

Coach Hugo Broos’ side found its rhythm early, dominating possession and creating numerous chances that unsettled the Congolese defence.

The scoring opened just five minutes into the match with a well-placed header from Teboho Mokoena, who capitalised on a corner kick.

Despite an immediate attempt from Congo to level the score, an offside call thwarted their efforts and allowed South Africa to maintain control.

Mokoena, who was later named Man of the Match, struck again just before the half-hour mark with a powerful shot that shook the stadium.

His effort helped establish a commanding lead, which was further solidified by Bathusi Aubaas shortly before half-time.

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Aubaas finished off another corner kick and expertly placed the ball into the bottom corner to make it 3-0 at the break.

In the second half, Congo appeared more aggressive, as they opened the proceedings with a half chance after splitting the home team’s defence.

However, South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was up to the challenge and cleared the ball in time to keep the clean sheet intact.

The fourth goal came shortly after the break when Lyle Foster finished off beautiful play between himself and Elias Mokwana.

Foster’s quick thinking and speed allowed him to evade defenders and slot the ball into the net in the 51st minute, increasing the score to 4-0.

Iqraam Rayners rounded off the scoring as he capitalised on a defensive lapse from Congo’s goalkeeper.

After pressing effectively, Rayners managed to block the clearance and calmly slotted the ball into the empty net, sealing the match at 5-0.

Despite the scoreline, Congo Brazzaville fought in the dying minutes of the game, creating several chances to get on the scoreboard.

However, 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.

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