South Africa faces Eritrea in Cairo AFCON qualifier, targeting second straight win

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.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Cairo time (6 p.m. South African Standard Time) on Wednesday. South Africa will remain in Egypt after the match to play a friendly against Egypt on October 4. The fixture is being broadcast by SABC and SuperSport for South African viewers.