South Africa made a winning start to their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying campaign, edging Guinea 2-1 in Group D at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Saturday. Defender Samukele Kabini, based in Norway with Molde, scored his first international goal in the 77th minute to seal the points for Bafana Bafana.

The result puts South Africa two points clear at the top of Group D after Eritrea held co-hosts Kenya to a 1-1 draw in Nairobi in the group's other fixture.

A hard-fought win for Mosimane's men

The victory marked a promising beginning to Pitso Mosimane's third spell as Bafana Bafana coach. South Africa dominated enough to deserve the three points, though Guinea made them work for every moment.

Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams produced an early save to deny Aliou Balde, and Relebohile Mofokeng squandered a golden chance to put the hosts ahead in the ninth minute. South Africa eventually broke the deadlock on the half-hour mark when defender Ime Okon blasted home off the near post — his initial header had struck teammate Yaya Sithole before falling kindly into his path.

Guinea hit back through Seydouba Cisse, who reacted fastest after Serhou Guirassy's free-kick struck the South African defensive wall. Cisse collected the loose ball and fired past Williams to level the contest.

The winning goal arrived in the 77th minute through a combination involving two substitutes. Striker Yanela Mbuthuma slipped Kabini in behind the Guinea defence, and the left-back — on for the injured Aubrey Modiba — showed the composure of a seasoned forward, slotting low past goalkeeper Soumaila Sylla to complete the comeback.

Why this victory matters

With Kenya already assured of a place at the finals as tournament co-hosts alongside Tanzania and Uganda, only the highest-placed team from the remaining three sides in Group D will earn qualification. South Africa's win over Guinea — one of their main rivals for that spot — gives Bafana Bafana an early advantage in what promises to be a tight race.

Eritrea stun Kenya before late equaliser

In Nairobi, Eritrea came close to pulling off a memorable upset. Nahom Girmai Netabay capitalised on hesitant Kenyan defending to give the visitors a first-half lead. Kenya, managed by former South African international Benni McCarthy, were forced to wait until three minutes from time before Ryan Ogam equalised to deny Eritrea a famous away victory.

Group D standings and what comes next

South Africa lead Group D with three points. Kenya and Eritrea sit level on one point each, while Guinea are yet to open their account.

Bafana Bafana travel to Cairo next, where they face Eritrea at a neutral venue on Wednesday, 30 September, looking to extend their lead. Guinea host Kenya the following day in another crucial qualifier.