Bafana Bafana legend Reneilwe Letsholonyane believes South Africa have what it takes to end a near three-decade wait for continental glory after opening their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 win over Angola in Morocco.
South Africa’s victory on Monday night provided the ideal start to the tournament and has reignited belief that Hugo Broos’ side can challenge for the title, almost 30 years after lifting the trophy on home soil in 1996.
Letsholonyane, a former Bafana midfielder who wore the national jersey with distinction, says the current squad is well placed to build on their third-place finish at the previous AFCON and take the final step this time around.
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“Almost 30 years is a very long time to wait, there’s no doubt about that,” Letsholonyane said to SuperSport. “But I truly feel we are in a good place right now. Over the last few years, the team has been building steadily. Finishing third at the last AFCON showed that we’re very close.”
The former Orlando Pirates midfielder highlighted squad depth as one of South Africa’s biggest strengths, pointing to the balance between youth, experience and tactical discipline.
“I have 100 percent confidence in this group,” he said. “It’s not just about the starting XI. There are players on the bench who are hungry and capable of changing games. That’s vital in a tournament like this.”
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Letsholonyane was also encouraged by the control shown in midfield against Angola, an area he believes will be decisive as the tournament progresses.
“The midfield is strong enough,” he added. “We have players who can control the tempo and manage matches. At this level, control is everything.”
While South Africa’s confidence is growing, Letsholonyane acknowledged that the road to the title remains demanding. Hosts Morocco are widely viewed as favourites, while traditional heavyweights Egypt, Senegal, Algeria and Nigeria all present major obstacles.
“For me, the biggest threat is Morocco, especially at home,” he said. “Egypt and Senegal are always strong as well. But I’m not too focused on the opposition. Our team is in a very good space.”
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Bafana Bafana now face crucial group matches against Egypt and Zimbabwe, fixtures that could shape their path through the tournament.
Letsholonyane believes success in Morocco could also provide momentum beyond AFCON, with an eye on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“If this team wins AFCON, it would give them unbelievable confidence,” he said. “It would put South African football in a very strong position moving forward.”
Photo: Gallo Images/Oupa Bopape
