South Africa’s national team, Bafana Bafana, were held to a frustrating goalless draw in their international friendly against Eswatini on Tuesday night at FNB Stadium. Despite a dominant performance from the hosts, they were unable to find the breakthrough in the match.
Bafana started the match brightly, with Themba Zwane coming close to giving them the lead within the first five minutes. However, his shot was saved by Eswatini goalkeeper Khayakwezwe Shabalala. Lyle Foster then had two chances in quick succession shortly after the 25th minute mark, but both shots sailed over the crossbar.
The hosts continued to dominate proceedings in the first half, with Nyiko Mobbie’s low drive from a set-piece routine being smothered by Shabalala. Despite their dominance, Bafana were unable to find the breakthrough and the sides went into the break goalless.
In the second half, Hugo Broos’ side were more purposeful going forward, with Aubrey Modiba providing a teasing cross that evaded both Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Mduduzi Mdantsane in front of goal. Bafana then made a triple change at the hour mark, introducing fresh legs in attack.
Eswatini defended deep and in numbers in the dying minutes and despite Broos’ tactical switch, introducing Zakhele Lepasa in the last 15 minutes, Bafana were unable to break them down. The visitors nearly stole a win in stoppage time, but Nkosinathi Sibisi made a crucial clearance at the back post from a cross, as the game ended goalless.
Hugo Broos has named South Africa’s squad to face Eswatini and Ivory Coast this month. AfricanFootball BafanaBafana pic.twitter.com/UwKK6IUAij
— Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) October 5, 2023
