Mozambique holds Bafana and draws in the Cosafa Cup

Bafana Bafana and Mozambique drew 1-1 in the 2024 Cosafa Cup Group A match at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Wednesday evening.

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From the first whistle it was clear that South Africa wanted an early lead and they almost achieved it in the third minute, but Asanele Velebhayi’s header hit the upright and to safety.

Mondli Mpoto then made a great save in the 24^e minute to deny Dario as Mozambique launched an attack of their own.

Bafana eventually took the lead in the 38^e minute through captain Rushwin Dortley and they took the lead at half-time.

The Mambas took the game to the hosts in the second half and Bafana resorted to a low block.

While Bafana looked rather shaky at the back, Mozambique eventually found the opening and equalized through Chamito Alfamenga in 65.^e minute that Mpondo defeated with a powerful shot from long range.

The goal seemed to have sent South Africa into turmoil and they took control of the match again, but Mozambique’s defense stood strong.

Ashley Cupido had two chances to put Bafana back in front but both times he shot wide, much to the frustration of coach Helman Mkhalele and the home fans in Gqeberha.

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The first Group A match between Botswana and Eswatini, played earlier in the day, meant that all teams in the group had one point each.

South Africa will next take on Botswana and Mozambique will take on Eswatini. Both matches will be played at the same location on Saturday.