South Africa Eyes Flawless AFCON Qualifying Record Against South Sudan
South Africa hosts South Sudan at Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday in their final Group K game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. While the match carries no qualification stakes, the hosts are eager to cap their campaign with an unbeaten record, while the visitors aim to end their run on a high after their first win.
Match Preview
South Africa secured their place at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco with a decisive 2-0 victory over Uganda on Friday. Second-half strikes from Thapelo Morena and Patrick Maswanganyi sealed the win, extending Bafana Bafana’s unbeaten streak in the qualifiers. With three wins and two draws in Group K, Hugo Broos’ side sits atop the table with 11 points.
The South Africans have been a force since their third-place finish in Ivory Coast at the last AFCON. They are unbeaten in 12 matches across all competitions, boasting five wins and seven draws. This consistency underscores Broos’ steady rebuilding of the team. The hosts now aim to wrap up their campaign with an unblemished record.
South Sudan, on the other hand, salvaged some pride with a dramatic 3-2 win over Congo in their last outing. Malish Ezibon Wajo starred with a brace, while Data Elly’s late strike secured their first victory of the qualifiers. The Bright Stars were already out of contention before the match, but their spirited performance prevented them from ending the campaign without a point.
Also Read: Alejandro Garnacho Joins Lamine Yamal in World’s Most Valuable U-21 Players List!
Despite their win, South Sudan faces an uphill battle. Their record of six consecutive away losses casts doubt on their ability to stun the in-form Bafana Bafana. Tuesday’s clash will be their second meeting with South Africa, the first ending in a 3-2 defeat for the Bright Stars.
Team News
Predicted XI:
Williams; Mudau, Basadien, Mvala, Mobbie; Mokoena, Aubaas; Morena, Maswanganyi, Appollis; Rayners
South Africa:
Hugo Broos is likely to rotate his squad for this dead rubber. Thapelo Morena and Patrick Maswanganyi, who scored against Uganda, could earn starting spots. Iqraam Rayners and Thalente Mbatha are also expected to feature as Bafana Bafana seeks to test squad depth.
South Sudan:
After a stellar performance against Congo, Malish Ezibon Wajo will lead South Sudan’s attack, supported by Yohanna Juma and Valentino Yuel. Coach Stefano Cusin is unlikely to make significant changes to a side that finally found its rhythm.
Predicted XI:
Jenaro; Taban, Thomas, Pal; Atendele, Gama, Chol, Okocha; Jawa, Leku, Juma
Prediction
South Africa’s disciplined defense and efficient attack make them clear favorites. South Sudan, buoyed by their recent win, could cause some problems but will likely fall short against the hosts’ superior quality and form.
Prediction: South Africa 3-1 South Sudan
