Mbule helps Bafana Bafana beat Ghana in a practice match ahead of AFCON

Sipho Mbule has emerged as the key player expected to carry Bafana Bafana’s hopes at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco.

Mbule lasted for 60 minutes as Bafana beat Ghana with his solo strike in a practice match at Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday, doing enough to demonstrate why he has been the creative brain behind Bafana’s attack in recent games.

The 27-year-old’s goal came two minutes before his substitution and marked his third direct contribution in just two matches for South Africa, having also registered two assists in the 3-1 friendly win over Zambia in Gqeberha last month.

Mbule’s form will provide a significant boost for Bafana as they head into AFCON, offering some relief from the cloud of negativity that surrounded the squad since camp began last week.

Coach Hugo Broos entered the match under scrutiny, following accusations of racism and sexism, after comments about Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s late arrival at camp and remarks about the defender’s agent, Basia Michaels. Broos later apologised, stressing that he was neither racist nor sexist.

The apology appeared to be well received. Against a makeshift Ghanaian team, Bafana played in front of an impressive crowd, with supporters showing strong backing ahead of the continental tournament.

Mbule’s thunderbolt from outside the box proved the difference between the two teams — a contribution that will please Broos, who is likely to place growing confidence in Mbule as Bafana’s main creative force in the No 10 role in Morocco.

SCORECARD

SOUTH AFRICA (0) 1

Mbule 58

GHANA 0