Bafana Bafana dominate Congo in AFCON qualifier

The win saw Bafana Bafana take charge of Group K, edging Uganda on goal difference after their win over South Sudan.

The match began with early dominance from South Africa, although Bathusi Aubaas' attempt from distance in the 6th minute flew over the bar.

Teboho Mokoena, who was to become the star of the show, opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a brilliant header from a corner. The ball was perfectly delivered into the box, and Mokoena's powerful header bounced past Congo keeper Christoffer Mafoumbi, giving South Africa a deserved lead.

South Africa extended their advantage just 14 minutes later when Mokoena bagged a stunning second goal. After a clever flick-up, he turned sharply and unleashed a thunderous shot from the edge of the box, beating Mafoumbi to make it 2-0.

Congo struggled to cope with the pressure, and in the 37th minute, Bathusi Aubaas added a third with a powerful header from Oswin Appollis' cross, making it 3-0 at half-time.

Congo's attempts to respond in the second half were thwarted by South Africa's solid defending, with Ronwen Williams making key saves.

The hosts weren't done, however, and in the 51st minute, Lyle Foster tapped in after a precise pass from Mokwana, making it 4-0.

As the game wore on, South Africa piled on the pressure. Iqraam Rayners sealed the win in the 77th minute, taking advantage of a poor clearance by Mafoumbi to score South Africa's fifth.

Despite some late chances for Congo, including a couple of attempts from Gaius Makouta and Josna Loulendo, Bafana Bafana held firm for a dominant 5-0 victory.

This comprehensive win sees South Africa firmly in control of their qualification group, and their attacking play will be hard to ignore as the tournament progresses.

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