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South Africa faces Eritrea in Cairo AFCON qualifier, targeting second straight win
South Africa face Eritrea in Cairo on Wednesday in their second 2027 AFCON Group D qualifier, aiming to extend their unbeaten run and consolidate their two-point lead. The match is held on neutral ground at Al Salam Stadium, with only one qualification spot available in a group that includes co-host Kenya.
Quick Facts
- AFCON 2027 Group D qualifier
- South Africa defeated Guinea 2-1 in opening match
- Eritrea drew 1-1 with Kenya in opening match
- Match held on neutral ground due to Eritrea's lack of CAF-compliant venue
- South Africa missing three key players to injury



South Africa's Bafana Bafana travel to Cairo on Wednesday to face Eritrea in their second 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Group D qualifier, seeking to build momentum after their opening 2-1 victory over Guinea. The match takes place at Al Salam Stadium on neutral ground because Eritrea lacks a CAF-compliant home venue. South Africa currently holds a two-point lead atop Group D following Eritrea's 1-1 draw with Kenya in their opener.
Coach Pitso Mosimane has warned his squad against underestimating Eritrea, noting their competitive performance in their opening match and their 4-1 aggregate win over Eswatini in the preliminary round. Mosimane identified Eritrean striker Ali Sulieman, who plays for Egyptian club Al Masry, as the primary threat, citing his pace, versatility in shooting from either flank, and dangerous set-piece and penalty-taking ability. Sulieman scored three goals in Eritrea's qualifying victory over Eswatini. Midfielder Nahom Netabaym, who plays for Swedish top division side Degerfors IF, is also flagged as a key danger man. Eritrea remain unbeaten in three matches under manager Hesham Yakan.
South Africa will be without centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi, right-back Khuliso Mudau, and midfielder Lebo Maboe due to injury. Left-back Aubrey Modiba's availability is uncertain after limping off against Guinea. Captain Ronwen Williams emphasized the squad's cohesion and receptiveness to tactical changes implemented since Mosimane's return for his second tenure, stressing the importance of maintaining the intensity that secured their opening victory.
The qualifying structure amplifies stakes in Group D: Kenya will advance regardless of final position as 2027 AFCON co-host, leaving only one spot available for South Africa, Guinea, and Eritrea. South Africa, ranked 50th globally, faced significant pressure after winning only 2 of their last 10 matches in 2026 before their Guinea victory. Despite the ranking gap—South Africa ranks 130 places above Eritrea—Mosimane emphasized that respect for the opponent is essential, particularly given Eritrea's ability to earn a point away from home against Kenya.
Why This Matters
South Africa and Eritrea are competing for one of two spots in 2027 AFCON Group D, with Kenya guaranteed participation as co-host. South Africa's victory would extend their unbeaten run and strengthen their qualification position; Eritrea seeks their second point to remain competitive. The match directly affects continental tournament qualification for both teams and the distribution of three teams competing for one available berth.
Timeline & Sources
Sep 28, 2026
WireSouth Africa defeated Guinea 2-1 in opening AFCON Group D qualifier; Eritrea drew 1-1 with Kenya
Sep 28, 2026
WireEritrea drew 1-1 with Kenya in opening AFCON Group D qualifier; Kenya equalised in final stages after Eritrea led
Oct 4, 2026
WireSouth Africa to face Egypt in friendly in Cairo
Oct 4, 2026
WireSouth Africa scheduled to play Egypt in friendly match in Cairo
Related Signals
Sources
- Mosimane wary of Eritrea’s threats ahead of AFCON qualifierECRMediaSep 30, 2026
- Eritrea vs. South Africa - Kick-off time, how to watch, team newsESPNMediaSep 30, 2026
- Eritrea vs. South Africa - Kick-off time, how to watch, team newsESPN IndiaMediaSep 30, 2026
- Eritrea vs South Africa predictions: Tough test for BafanaGoal.comMediaSep 30, 2026
- Bafana's bid for back-to-back winseNCAMediaSep 30, 2026
- Bafana coach Mosimane wary of Eritrea’s star strikerTimesLIVEMediaSep 30, 2026