South Africa Bids Farewell to COSAFA Cup Despite Victory Over eSwatini

Tournament hosts South Africa faced disappointment as they bid farewell to the 2024 COSAFA Cup despite their 1-0 triumph over underdogs eSwatini at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha.

The hosts made a quick start, with Thabang Sibanyoni from Mamelodi Sundowns netting a powerful header just three minutes into the game, securing a 1-0 lead for Bafana.

Asanele Velebayi came close to extending Bafana’s lead in the 13th minute but narrowly missed the target with his attempt.

In the 26th minute, eSwatini squandered a golden opportunity to equalize after catching Bafana off guard, but Sizolwethu Shabalala’s shot missed the mark when faced with Mondli Mpoto.

Sihlangu Semnikati thought they had leveled the score in the 30th minute, only to be ruled offside.

South Africa’s hopes of a 2-0 lead were dashed in the 37th minute when Xolani Gama produced a remarkable save from Ashley Cupido, allowing Helman Mkhalele‘s side to head into halftime with a 1-0 advantage.

The ‘visitors’ missed a clear chance in the 61st minute as Magagula Junior’s header went wide, letting Mpoto off the hook.

In the 78th minute, Mpoto pulled off an impressive one-handed save from Siphephelo Philiso’s shot destined for the far corner.

Sibanyoni had another missed opportunity in the 86th minute from close range as Gama denied him once more.

Despite their efforts, the Kingdom of eSwatini managed to hold off Bafana in the remaining minutes, ultimately sealing a 1-0 victory.

Mkhalele’s squad finished second in Group A but failed to advance due to not securing the top spot or as the best runner-up.

New champions are set to be crowned this year as defending champions Zambia suffered a surprising 1-0 defeat against Comoros, leading to their elimination after finishing at the bottom of Group B with zero points.