Unsung fighters that helped topple Brave Warriors
BAFANA Bafana’s assertive victory over Namibia was littered with many standout displays in their second match of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Head coach Hugo Broos was a picture of satisfaction in the post-match media conference as he analysed some of the biggest talking points of Bafana’s 4-0 win over the Brave Warriors.
The Belgian was so happy that he whipped out his phone to record his men as they sang their lungs out in the dressing room after a good day at the office.
Undoubtedly, the name on everyone’s lips is that of Temba Zwane, who was at the centre of the Namibian demolition in the first half as Bafana scored three goals in 45 minutes but here, Smiso Msomi looks at the three other players that shone the brightest against Namibia.
Tebogo Mokoena
The Bafana set-up has, for a long time, longed to find a dominant central defensive midfielder to fill a slot that was once held by the likes of Kagiso Dikgacoi and Macbeth Sibaya.
Step up Free State-born Mokoena, who now runs both the midfield of Bafana as well as African Football League (AFL) Champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
The 26-year-old hardman touched the ball more than any other player on the pitch against Namibia, won 60% of his ground duels and capped it all off with a stylish late assist for substitute Thapelo Maseko.
Mokoena also played a huge role in protecting the Bafana back four who were always vulnerable to the speed of Namibia on the counter-attack. If not for Zwane’s exploits in front of goal, Mokoena would have definitely scooped the player-of-thematch award.
Thapelo Morena
The inclusion of Morena in the Afcon squad certainly raised a few eyebrows ahead of the tournament, considering his limited game time at club level due to injury.
However, all of those doubts were quickly put to bed when the speedy winger created Bafana’s first two goals. He had the ever-reliable Riaan Hanamub at sixes and sevens for the entire 80 minutes he was on the pitch as he earned a penalty off the AmaZulu man before dodging him again to set up one of Zwane’s goals.
Although known to be a very versatile player in defence and attack, Morena’s offensive prowess came to the fore against Namibia as he asked questions of the entire backline with his diagonal running and dangerous crosses. Many Bafana followers will be hoping his injury is not serious, after hobbling off the pitch with 10 minutes to go.
Khuliso Mudau
Mudau’s clash with Orlando Pirates speedsters Deon Hoto was pinpointed as one of the most important battles ahead of this encounter.
Given Hotto’s influence on Namibia’s forward line, stopping him in his traps would certainly lessen the danger in the Bafana box, a mission Mudau was able to complete with flying colours. The 28-year-old right back won 100% of his one-on-one scenarios, as well as ground duels, while contributing to the forward onslaught by completing 85% of his passes.
The Mamelodi Sundowns man also played with great maturity as he marauded down the touchline when Bafana went in search of goals but also protected his centre backs when the moments demanded.