Relebohile Mofokeng scored twice as South Africa cruised to a 5-0 win over Eritrea in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Wednesday. The victory in Cairo gives Pitso Mosimane's side a perfect six points from their opening two matches in Group D.
Mofokeng, who plays for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, netted both his goals in the first half. He also struck the post during a commanding performance. Sphephelo Sithole, Iqraam Rayners and Luther Singh added three more after the break to complete the rout.
This was the first-ever meeting between the two nations. The result leaves South Africa in a commanding position early in the qualifying race for the finals, which will be staged in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania in 2027. Kenya have one point from two games, Guinea have zero, and Eritrea are also on one point.
The win provides a welcome boost ahead of South Africa's next competitive action. They currently sit second in their World Cup qualifying group with four points from three matches. Their next fixture is a key away trip to face Egypt on 4 October.
Background and full detail: Straits Times Sport
Oswin Appollis provided three assists in South Africa's 5-0 win over Eritrea on Wednesday. The Polokwane City winger set up both of Relebohile Mofokeng's goals and the late strike for Luther Singh. Coach Pitso Mosimane said, "Oswin's creativity was decisive." The team, which is second in its World Cup qualifying group, now prepares for an away match against Egypt on 4 October.
