Cape Times soccer writer John Goliath rates Bafana’s performance against Congo in their Afcon qualifier.
Senzo Meyiwa (9)
Produced a few outstanding saves in the last quarter to keep Congo at bay. Lifts his game in tough conditions in front of hostile crowds, and seems to be enjoying the captaincy. Was booked for time-wasting.
Thulani Hlatshwayo (7)
This kid is a true warrior. The Wits defender actually played the first half with a stomach bug and only used the toilet during the halftime break. Did not quite manage to get forward enough, as he had to help and nullify the threat of Thievy Bifouma.
Eric Mathoho (8)
The towering Kaizer Chiefs centre back dominated the aerial battle with big Congo No 10 Ferebory Dore, and swatted away almost every long ball kicked in his direction. One of the reasons Bafana haven’t conceded a goal in the qualifiers.
Rivaldo Coetzee (8)
A future superstar. The 17-year-old Coetzee became the youngest player to represent South Africa, but looked like he has been playing international football for a decade. His calmness on the ball and his decision-making are fantastic. He was also good in the air.
Thabo Matlaba (5)
Not the best outing for the Orlando Pirates left back. Conceded possession on a couple of occasions in his own half, but luckily for the visitors, Congo didn’t show enough quality to take advantage. Needs to attack more and take on defenders with his pace.
Mandla Masango (7)
Had a couple of good runs and hit the post with a stinging left-footed volley. Struggled to adapt to the terrible synthetic pitch in the first quarter, but defintely improved as the match went on. Worked hard on defence and wasn’t scared to track back.
Andile Jali (8)
Jali is forming a formidable partnership with Dean Furman. Got forward nicely, and looked dangerous on the edge of the penalty area. Struggled a few times with the weight of his passes on the slow surface, but adapted really well.
Dean Furman (9)
The “Furmanator” broke up the Congolese attacks with a few classy interceptions, while he also picked up every second ball that dropped in his vicinity. Set up Tokelo Rantie’s goal with a superb reverse pass. One of the most important members of the team.
Thulani Serero (7)
“Cream” dispelled the myth that he doesn’t like to track back and defend, as he ran his socks off in the heat and humidity at the Stade Municipal. Unfortunately Bafana fans only saw glimpses of his attacking threat, but he should be the real danger man with a bit more freedom at home in the return game on Wednesday night.
Tokelo Rantie (7)
Rantie lacked a bit of confidence going into the clash. But he took his goal really well, and it will give him a timely boost. However, the English-based striker needs to be a bit stronger on the ball, as he was dispossessed far too often.
Bongani Ndulula (8)
His goal set Bafana on their way to a memorable victory. He showed great anticipation to profit from a Hlatshwayo’s header into the area, before finishing spectacularly. Held the ball up nicely upfront against the big Congo defenders. Went off in the second half following a knock to his knee.
Substitutes
Kermit Erasmus (7)
Gave Bafana a running option in the second half when Congo were chasing the game. Produced some nice touches.
Sibusiso Vilakazi (7)
“The General” showed quality when he came on in the second half. The Bafana bench has plenty of impact players.
Reneilwe Letsholonyane (6)
Came on to add more numbers in midfield and close up the game. Fluffed a chance to make it 3-0 late in the match.