Bafana Bafana secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Benin in their World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, further extending their lead at the top of Group C and boosting their hopes of qualification. Football writer Smiso Msomi takes a look at five key talking points from the match.
Another look at the Foster goal that separates these two teams..#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/OunI0CjoDi
Lyle Foster finds form at the right moment
Lyle Foster’s goal in the match was crucial for Bafana, as it provided the team with a vital lead. His goal was not only his first in World Cup qualifying but also his first since November last year.
Foster’s ability to deliver in a critical moment highlighted his importance to the team and gave him the confidence needed to build on future performances in the qualifiers.
Solid defensive performance secures the win
Bafana's defence was resolute throughout the game, successfully shutting out Benin and providing a strong platform for victory. The central defensive pairing of Siyabonga Ngezana and Nkosinathi Sibisi played key roles in limiting Benin’s attacking threats.
Both full-backs, Khuliso Mudau and Fawaaz Basadien, also provided vital defensive support while remaining a constant threat in attack. The clean sheet reflected the team’s growing defensive solidity despite rotation.
South Africa’s road to the 2026 Fifa World Cup has hit a potential roadblock following a yellow-card controversy surrounding midfielder Tebogo Mokoena.#sport #soccer #BafanaBafana #FIFAWorldCup #tebogomokoena
— IOL Sport (@IOLsport) March 25, 2025
Read on https://t.co/icr8zhFvPc pic.twitter.com/OTKZBzZ57B
Absence of Teboho Mokoena does not disrupt the midfield
Teboho Mokoena, suspended due to yellow card accumulation, was a notable absentee for Bafana in this match. However, the team showed poise and composure in his absence. Thalente Mbatha stepped into the midfield role with confidence, ensuring the team maintained control of the game.
Mokoena's absence, which could have disrupted the midfield, was mitigated by a strong collective effort from the squad. Their depth and ability to adapt when necessary were evident, with Bathusi Aubaas also stabilising matters in Ivory Coast.
📌 𝔾ℝ𝕆𝕌ℙ ℂ 𝕃𝕆𝔾 📌
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) March 25, 2025
Bafana Bafana 🇿🇦 open up a five-point lead at the top of Group C, from where the first-place team secures an automatic spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup 🏆#SABCSportFootball | #FIFAWCQ pic.twitter.com/Zvqa5w2nk3
Impressive BMT in handling Mokoena’s suspension
The controversial nature of Mokoena’s absence was expected to unsettle the visiting camp, but Bafana showed maturity and composure throughout the game.
The absence of such an influential player could have been a major disruption, but the team remained focused on the task at hand. Their ability to handle the situation calmly and not let it affect their performance highlights their mental strength—an essential trait for competing on the road in Africa.
The second goal from Adams!! pic.twitter.com/c5nOkIjEWW
— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) March 25, 2025
Jayden Adams scores in back-to-back games: A remarkable comeback
Jayden Adams marked his return to the national team after disciplinary issues in the previous camp by scoring in back-to-back games—netting a goal in the win against Benin following his goal in the previous match against Lesotho.
Adams’ swift return to form is a significant boost for Bafana. His ability to score in critical moments demonstrates his readiness and hunger to contribute more from midfield, making him a valuable asset as the team looks ahead to the USA next year.