Bafana Bafana start new era with hard-fought victory against Guinea

Bafana made a strong start on home soil and deservedly took the lead in the first half, before Guinea responded after the break. However, the hosts showed resilience to regain their advantage and hold on for an important victory.

It was a competitive encounter that saw Bafana dominate for large periods of the opening stanza, while Guinea looked the more dangerous side for much of the second half before South Africa fought their way back into the contest.

Relebohile Mofokeng had an early opportunity to put Bafana ahead after a defensive mistake left him one-on-one with Guinea goalkeeper Soumaila Sylla, but the youngster was denied.

The hosts continued to apply pressure, with Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis and Thapelo Maseko causing problems for the Guinea defence with their movement and attacking play.

Guinea gradually grew into the game, with Aliou Balde proving particularly dangerous down the left flank.

Bafana eventually found the breakthrough in the 30th minute following a short corner. The delivery found Ime Okon at the back post, whose initial header was saved by Sylla, but the defender reacted quickly to the rebound and fired home.

Bafana finished the half strongly, with Maseko played through on goal, although his effort went across the face of goal. Teboho Mokoena then tested Sylla from distance, but the goalkeeper was equal to the powerful strike.

Guinea came out with greater purpose after the interval and began enjoying more possession, with Balde continuing to trouble the South African defence.

Balde almost created the equaliser around the hour mark when his cross found Karim Traore, but the forward's header went wide.

The visitors continued pushing forward, with Serhou Guirassy also going close as Guinea searched for a way back into the contest.

Their persistence eventually paid off in the 67th minute when Seydoubba Cisse found the equaliser, although the hosts immediately protested for an offside decision.

The goal appeared to spark Bafana back into life, and substitute Samukelo Kabini restored their lead eight minutes later with a composed finish in the 75th minute.

Guinea pushed for another equaliser in the closing stages, but Ronwen Williams produced important saves while the Bafana defence held firm to secure Mosimane a winning start to his second spell as head coach of Bafana.

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