Harambee Stars produced a dramatic late fightback to hold South Africa’s Bafana Bafana to a 2-2 draw in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Orlando Stadium on Friday night, with substitute Ryan Ogam striking in the 90th minute to deny the hosts victory.

South Africa took an early lead in the ninth minute through an unfortunate own goal by Kenya defender Amos Wanjala. The hosts controlled long spells but were pegged back when captain Michael Olunga converted a first-half penalty to make it 1-1. The goal took Olunga to 35 international goals, equalling William Ouma’s record as Kenya’s all-time leading scorer.

Bafana Bafana appeared to have won it when Relebohile Mofokeng scored in the 77th minute, but Kenya refused to fold. Ogam’s late equaliser silenced the Johannesburg crowd and capped a spirited performance from the visitors. Kenya’s defence, led by Wanjala, recovered after the early setback, while the midfield grew into the game as the visitors pushed for an equaliser.

The result keeps Harambee Stars’ qualifying campaign on track. As co-hosts of the 2027 tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania, Kenya are assured of a place at the finals, but the point adds momentum and belief. South Africa will rue missed chances after dominating possession but failing to protect their lead.

The two sides meet again on Tuesday, November 17, at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, where Kenya will aim to build on the late heroics and South Africa will seek revenge. For now, Ogam’s stoppage-time strike and Olunga’s record-equalling penalty give Harambee Stars plenty to celebrate.

Source courtesy of https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/sports/football/article/2001562255/harambee-stars-stun-bafana-bafana-with-dramatic-late-fightback-in-johannesburg?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAcGRvZgNzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8yNzUyNTQ2OTI1OTgyNzkAAR-daeTyRDPMCzhGCz-rA_dQ-xLekEyxcOuY1fqRr1GEXpSz75LxjaPAJwpNOQ_aem_ijk6CXphXlosBDenAG5HzQ