Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has heaped praise on Oswin Appollis after churning out an impressive outing during their emphatic 5-0 victory over Eritrea on Wednesday night, while describing Relebohile Mofokeng as sheer class.
Appollis entered Bafana’s second Afcon qualifier against Eritrea at the Al Salam Stadium in Cairo under heavy scrutiny, after Mosimane had stated following their 2-1 win over Guinea that the player needed to help the team more defensively and not play solely the way he is used to at his club, Orlando Pirates.
The attacker seemed not to have taken Mosimane’s assessment negatively, but rather as constructive criticism. He put on one of his best performances in a Bafana shirt, playing with poise and composure and demonstrating strong chemistry with his teammates after assisting Mofokeng’s opener, Iqraam Rayners’ fourth strike and Luther Singh’s final goal.
“I am happy with the three assists from Appollis. He can play anywhere – on the wings, drift inside, and all of that,” Mosimane said. “He’s a good boy and a good player. I am happy with Appollis; he gave us assists. He gave Luther Singh an opportunity to make a strong return, as he’s been out for a long time.”
Having made a late cameo, Singh, who returned to the Bafana setup after a five-year absence, made his minutes count by quickly forming combinations with the rest of the attacking line.
“Even Luther delivered two good balls, which shows that the players are united and there’s no selfishness,” Mosimane said. “It’s all about teamwork.”
The night belonged to Mofokeng. The young attacker demonstrated his maturity, bringing the invaluable lessons he has been gaining at club level, at Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, to the national team.
Mofokeng initially latched onto Appollis’ pass early in the first half and slotted home the opener from close range. He then completed his brace with sheer composure and skill as he worked his way into space, bypassing defenders before slotting the ball past Jonathan Sultan in goal.
“Rele showed his class. What a class. Rele is a top player!” Mosimane concluded.
With Sphephelo Sithole and Iqraam Rayners also getting on the scoresheet, Mosimane will hope the team’s scoring spree continues when they face Egypt in an international friendly at Cairo International Stadium on Sunday.
