Talking points: Bafana Bafana's emphatic win signals resilience amid adversity

Bafana Bafana emerged as decisive 3-0 winners over Lesotho on Friday evening, in a match laden with tension and external strife.

However, the victory not only boosts morale but also showcases the team’s resilience amid a backdrop of controversy and injury setbacks.

Among the talking points of the match, apart from the controversy and injuries, was the Bafana Bafana defence’s ability to secure a clean sheet. 

1 Lesotho's supposed protest was just noise

Bafana Bafana delivered a strong performance with their 3-0 win. It was a crucial step towards qualifying for next year's FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The match was rife with tensions stemming from off-pitch discussions surrounding midfielder Teboho Mokoena. As Bafana Bafana prepared for this crucial encounter, the backdrop was filled with controversy over Mokoena's eligibility.

A Lesotho official had issued a warning against his inclusion in the squad, arguing that he should serve a suspension stemming from an incident in their previous 2-0 defeat in Polokwane back in March.

However, undeterred by this external noise, the Bafana coaching staff remained resolute, deploying the Bethlehem-born midfielder in the starting lineup.

Mokoena's presence on the field proved instrumental in the team’s overall performance. He not only orchestrated plays but also kept the opposition goalkeeper on high alert, testing him twice with fierce attempts on goal.

Broos took a pointed dig at Lesotho at the post-match presser, saying: "That shows again that you only win games on the pitch, and not off the pitch."

2 Bafana riding a wave of injuries

Coach Hugo Broos has expressed concern about the numerous injury issues affecting his squad, stating that this training camp has been the most challenging since his appointment in 2021.

Going into the match, at least eight players were injured, and Friday's match added Nyiko Mobbie and Thabo Moloisane to the wounded walking list, further compounding the coach's concerns.

The latest setbacks were compounded by the absence of Thapelo Morena, who has been capped 34 times for the national side.

Initially reported to be injured, it was later clarified that the player was fit, a testament to the miscommunications that can occur even in the highest echelons of team management.

Broos remains optimistic, attributing the team’s resilience to the depth within the squad. “We’ve had challenges, but I believe in the quality we have,” Broos stated, highlighting the ability of the selected players to rise to the occasion despite the constantly changing squad.

As Broos navigates these turbulent waters, he faces the challenge of maintaining team morale while ensuring tactical readiness, despite uncertainty regarding player availability.

Broos has emphasised that injuries can shake a team's foundation, but also prepared to present opportunities for emerging talent to shine. He will leverage every resource at his disposal to field a competitive side.

3 No seasoned defenders, but a clean sheet

Despite the absence of seasoned defenders, Bafana Bafana managed a clean sheet against Lesotho.

This outcome is especially impressive given the significant absence of several key defenders, including Khuliso Mudau, Nkosinathi Sibisi, and Mothobi Mvala. Adding to that, the squad was further undermined by the missing Grant Kekana and Fawaaz Basadien, all of whom are crucial to the team’s defensive line-up.

With such a young and under-experienced defence taking the field, many aficionados had expressed concerns. However, it was this very inexperience that appeared to breathe new life into Bafana Bafana's performance. The defenders, many of whom possess little to no international exposure, stepped up, showcasing remarkable organisation and resilience against their opponents.

The team’s defensive line, composed mainly of new players, demonstrated impressive teamwork despite their limited international experience. Key tackles and strategic positioning effectively prevented the opposition from scoring, showing that a lack of experience doesn’t necessarily result in poor performance on the field.

The team's untried defence offers a sliver of hope for South African football during a time when scepticism looms among fans and analysts alike.

Broos is undoubtedly encouraged by this outcome. It signals that South Africa's future might be in capable hands despite a transitional phase, adding to an exciting storyline where youth and fresh talent are crucial for redefining the national team.