South Africa sent a confident message to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, thrashing Zambia 3‑1 in a pulsating international friendly at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha, on Saturday.
A masterclass from Orlando Pirates winger Oswin Appollis opened the scoring in the 43rd minute after Sipho Mbule’s pinpoint pass sliced through the Chipolopolo defence.
Just past the hour, young substitute Mohau Nkota latched on to another Mbule loft and curled a sublime shot into the top corner for 2‑0, before his in‑swinging corner six minutes later found Sphephelo Sithole, who headed home the third.
Zambia’s misery was compounded when Chongo Kabaso escaped a red card for a brutal challenge on Mbule early on.
Despite a late consolation from substitute Joseph Sabobo in injury time, the hosts controlled possession and territory throughout, leaving the fans buzzing.
Coach Hugo Broos praised the performance, noting the win as vital momentum for Bafana as they prepare for the continental showdown in Morocco in five weeks.
Pictured above: Bafana Bafana
Source: @bafanabafanaofficial
