Bafana Bafana Drop Points as Benni McCarthy’s Kenya Snatch Late 2-2 Draw

Bafana Bafana surrendered two valuable points after conceding a late equaliser in a 2-2 draw against Kenya, coached by former South African striker Benni McCarthy, at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday evening.

Ryan Ogam struck late to rescue a point for Kenya, denying South Africa what would have been an important victory in their Group D campaign.

The result means Bafana remain top of Group D with seven points, just one ahead of second-placed Guinea, keeping the race for qualification finely balanced.

South Africa entered the encounter knowing that a victory would strengthen their position at the top of the group. However, McCarthy’s Kenyan side proved difficult opponents, showing resilience and determination to remain in the contest.

The visitors managed to frustrate Bafana for large periods, making life difficult for the home side despite South Africa enjoying the advantage of playing in front of their supporters.

The match produced four goals, with both teams finding the back of the net twice. However, the late equaliser from Ogam ultimately became the defining moment of the encounter.

For McCarthy, the result represents an important outcome against his home country. The former Bafana Bafana striker has been building his Kenya side, and holding South Africa to a draw on their own soil provides another significant moment in his tenure.

Meanwhile, the dropped points will leave Pitso Mosimane and his technical team with plenty to assess, particularly after allowing Kenya to find a way back into the match during the closing stages.

Although South Africa remain in control of their group position, the one-point advantage over Guinea means there is little room for further slip-ups.

Bafana will now need to quickly turn their attention to their remaining Group D fixtures, with the objective of protecting their position and securing qualification.

The draw also highlights the competitive nature of the group, with Kenya demonstrating that they can challenge the leading sides.

South Africa still occupy first place with seven points, but Friday’s result has made the battle for the top position more closely contested.

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