Nkota, Appollis strike as Bafana overpower Zambia

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Bafana Bafana strengthened their Africa Cup of Nations preparations with a composed 3-1 win over Zambia on Saturday afternoon, extending their momentum with a balanced display across both halves.

In-form Orlando Pirates winger Tshepang Moremi earned his first senior start, while midfielder Teboho Mokoena marked a significant milestone by collecting his 50th cap.

Bafana dominated early possession, with Moremi, Mokoena, Sipho Mbule and Oswin Appollis dictating play in advanced areas. Zambia absorbed the initial pressure and attempted to counter through wide channels, though Ronwen Williams remained largely untested.

Appollis threatened on the half-hour mark with a powerful long-range attempt that was well saved by Toaster Nsabata. The winger eventually made his breakthrough just before halftime, timing his run to the left edge of the box to meet a Sithole through-ball before finishing low into the bottom corner.

Appollis was replaced at the interval by Mohau Nkota, while Williams and Mokoena made way for Sipho Chaine and Thalente Mbatha. Zambia emerged with renewed intent after the restart, nearly levelling through Fashion Sakala’s sharp effort from a tight angle.

Bafana regained control in the 61st minute when Mbule’s deft flick sent Nkota into space. The substitute cut inside his marker and bent his finish beyond Nsabata to double the lead. Nkota then turned provider eight minutes later, delivering a precise corner that Sithole met with a firm header to make it 3-0.

Zambia continued to push forward and were rewarded late on when Banda converted from close range, but the goal served only as a consolation. Bafana had already secured a convincing victory as they build towards the continental finals.

Photo by Richard Huggard/Gallo Images

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