Bafana Bafana Wrap Up Friendly Series With Win Over Mozambique
By Thulani Ngcobo – Ngcobo2010 Sharp Eye
Bafana Bafana capped off their June international break with a convincing 2-0 victory over Mozambique at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Tuesday evening, 10 June 2025. This win came just four days after a goalless draw against Tanzania at the same venue.
Coach Hugo Broos used the second match to experiment with his squad, ringing in changes from the first starting lineup. One of the most notable decisions was handing a debut to Orlando Pirates’ promising young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who looked composed in his first senior appearance for the national team.
The home side started the match with high intensity, launching wave after wave of attack. Relebohile Mofokeng and Sinoxolo Kwayiba were constant threats, but Mozambique’s goalkeeper Ivane Urrubal stood firm, pulling off several key saves to keep the game goalless at halftime.
Despite the referee not issuing any cards, Mozambique’s overly physical approach disrupted Bafana’s rhythm. Youngsters like Mohau Nkota and Yanele Mbuthuma took heavy challenges throughout the half, which seemed to dent their confidence in possession.
However, the second half saw a revitalized Bafana Bafana. Just under three minutes in, Sinoxolo Kwayiba opened the scoring with a brilliant strike, rewarding the team’s persistent pressure. Mozambique continued to struggle to gain any attacking momentum, with goalkeeper Sipho Chaine enjoying a quiet evening between the sticks.
In the 67th minute, Broos made a triple substitution — introducing Ashley Cupido, Oswin Appollis, and Renaldo Leaner for Chaine, Mofokeng, and Mbuthuma. The changes paid immediate dividends. Cupido made an instant impact, doubling Bafana’s lead just two minutes after coming on, proving once again why he’s becoming a reliable option off the bench.
Later, in the 75th minute, Deano Van Rooyen and Simphiwe Selepe were brought on for Ndamulelo Maphangule and Nyiko Mobbie, as Broos looked to see out the game with fresh legs.
The match ended 2-0 in favour of the South Africans, with Kwayiba deservedly walking away with the Man of the Match accolade for his all-round performance and stunning opener.
With these two friendlies done and dusted, Coach Hugo Broos will be pleased with the depth and potential on display, especially from the younger generation who are knocking hard on the door ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures.
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