Mbule masterclass headlines five outstanding Bafana performances

Sipho Mbule led a group of impressive individual displays as Bafana Bafana defeated Zambia, with Khuliso Mudau, Elias Appollis, Yaya Sithole and Nkosinathi Sibisi all delivering assured performances.

Their collective impact underlined South Africa’s growing cohesion ahead of next month’s Africa Cup of Nations. Here, we look at how their impact on the game led to the 3-1 victory.

1 Sipho Mbule | Player of the Match

Mbule walked off the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium pitch looking like a player finally ready to stake an undisputed claim in the Bafana setup. Named Player of the Match, the Orlando Pirates midfielder ran the show from deep and advanced pockets, constantly demanding the ball and stitching play together with composure and vision.

His two assists were the headline, but the nuance of his performance stood out even more — quick feet in tight spaces, controlled switches of play, and the confidence to attempt progressive passes that broke Zambia’s lines.

Mbule looked in total command, and this outing will only strengthen calls for him to become a permanent fixture in Hugo Broos’ midfield rotation.

2 Khuliso Mudau | Relentless Energy and Defensive Steel

“Sailor” delivered another display that showcased why he has become arguably the most consistent fullback in the national team.

From the first whistle, Mudau was aggressive in duels, quick to ground, and excellent at cutting off Zambia’s attempts to isolate him on the right flank.

He pressed high, recovered well and supported attacks with trademark intensity. What set him apart was the balance — never reckless, always calculated, and constantly communicating with the centre-backs.

Mudau gave Bafana both stability and thrust, reaffirming his growing importance in Broos’ defensive structure.

3 Elias Appollis | Lively, Direct and on the Scoresheet

Appollis once again proved that he brings an exciting edge to Bafana’s frontline. His goal was a reward for intelligent movement, timing and bravery in carrying the ball into dangerous areas.

Throughout the match he attacked space, combined neatly with midfielders and forced Zambia onto the back foot with his pace. Appollis looks increasingly comfortable at international level, and performances like this underline his potential to become a regular attacking threat for South Africa going forward.

4 Siphephelo Sithole | A Commanding Display with a Powerful Header

Known for his ruggedness and ball-winning ability, Yaya showed he can influence games further up the pitch as well.

His thumping header from a corner was a moment of sheer determination, beating his marker with strength and desire. But beyond the goal, Sithole bossed the midfield – shielding the defence, disrupting Zambia’s rhythm, and playing simple but effective passes to help build attacks.

Sithole’s physical presence and tactical discipline ensured Bafana controlled the contest even during Zambia’s stronger spells.

5 Nkosinathi Sibisi | Calm, Composed and Consistent

At the heart of the defence, Sibisi offered the kind of calm assurance Bafana needed. He read danger early, positioned himself superbly and won key aerial duels against Zambia’s physically imposing forwards.

Sibisi’s distribution was clean, his decision-making sharp, and his leadership evident as he constantly marshalled the backline. Nothing flashy, nothing forced — just a complete, disciplined centre-back performance that anchored South Africa’s defensive efforts.