Samukele Kabini’s Bafana Bafana Form Raises Questions Ahead of Egypt Friendly

CAIRO, EGYPT — Samukele Kabini has emerged as one of the talking points surrounding Bafana Bafana after making a significant contribution in each of his last two appearances for South Africa.

The 22-year-old defender first made headlines during Bafana’s 2-1 victory over Guinea in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on 26 September. Introduced after Aubrey Modiba’s injury, Kabini produced a composed finish in the 77th minute to score his first international goal and secure three points for Pitso Mosimane’s side. CAF confirmed that Yanela Mbuthuma provided the assist for the decisive goal.

Kabini was subsequently handed a starting role against Eritrea in Cairo on Wednesday, with Modiba unavailable because of injury. His involvement once again proved valuable as Bafana produced an emphatic 5-0 victory to make it two wins from two in their opening Group D qualifiers.

The latest performance also added another attacking contribution to Kabini’s growing international record. The Molde FC left-back supplied the pass from which Relebohile Mofokeng scored his second goal of the night just before half-time, helping South Africa establish a commanding advantage. Mofokeng eventually completed a brace, while Sphephelo Sithole, Iqraam Rayners and Luther Singh also found the net.

That means Kabini has now registered two goal contributions in his last two Bafana appearances — one goal and one assist.

His recent rise has also come at an important time for Mosimane. The returning Bafana coach has been forced to manage injuries within his squad, with Modiba and Teboho Mokoena both ruled out of the Eritrea fixture. Kabini’s ability to contribute defensively while also offering an attacking outlet has therefore added another dimension to the selection discussion.

Attention will now turn to Bafana’s international friendly against Egypt at Cairo International Stadium on 4 October. The fixture was confirmed as part of South Africa’s September-October international programme.

Whether Mosimane retains Kabini in the starting XI or uses him in another role will be closely watched. His recent performances have certainly given supporters plenty to discuss as South Africa prepare for another high-profile encounter.

For now, Kabini’s progression represents one of the notable individual stories from Bafana’s strong opening to the AFCON qualifying campaign.

Source https://x.com/i/status/2105367544039198757