Bafana Bafana secured a thrilling 2-1 win over Guinea in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship, with Thabiso Kutumela proving the difference.
Playing at the Mandela National Stadium, the 31-year-old forward delivered a Man of the Match performance, scoring and inspiring the team to bounce back from their opening draw. His movement, creativity, and composure unsettled Guinea’s defence and brought rhythm to South Africa’s attack.
Kutumela’s influence was clear from the outset as he dropped deep to link play and drifted into wide positions to stretch the opposition.
His sharp passing and ability to find pockets of space gave Bafana Bafana the edge in a tightly contested match.
Speaking after the game, Kutumela remained humble: “I’m happy to have won the award, but this trophy is dedicated to all my teammates, the coach, and the entire technical staff.” He added that the victory was a much-needed morale boost for the squad.
Eyes On The Remaining Group Games
The match saw South Africa take an early lead before Guinea equalised, raising the stakes. But Kutumela’s decisive goal in the second half restored control, and the team held firm despite late pressure from the West Africans.
The win now sets up crucial fixtures against Uganda and Niger, which will determine Bafana’s progression in the tournament.
Kutumela stressed the importance of staying focused for the upcoming challenges: “Every game will be important,” he said.
With his leadership and form, South Africa will be counting on him to keep their CHAN ambitions alive.
Nigeria’s Must-Win Test Against Sudan
Meanwhile, in Group D, Nigeria finds itself in a precarious position following a narrow 1-0 loss to reigning champions Senegal, leaving them rooted at the bottom with zero points. Their upcoming match against Sudan is nothing less than a must-win. Coach Éric Chelle has emphasized tactical discipline, collective spirit, and intensity, but Nigeria has shown issues with finishing and maintaining pressing into the final third of play.
Facing a Sudanese side buoyed by a 1-1 draw in their opener, much will depend on Nigeria’s ability to convert opportunities and control the midfield if they hope to stay alive in the competition.
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