Bafana claim first CHAN win, eyes now on Niger

BAFANA Bafana claimed their first victory at the African Nations Championship (CHAN), edging Guinea 2-1 to stay in contention for a place in the knockout stages.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

The win moved South Africa up to third in Group C, keeping their unbeaten run intact after their 1-1 draw against Algeria in the tournament opener on Friday.

They now trail group leaders and co-hosts Uganda by two points, although the Ugandans have played one game more. Algeria also sit on four points but are ahead of Bafana on goal difference.

Goals from Neo Maema and Thabiso Kutumela proved decisive, helping South Africa hold off a spirited Guinea side. Despite Moussa Camara’ 37th-minute equaliser, Bafana managed to weather the storm as fatigue began to set in among their largely unattached squad members.

Molefi Ntseki’s men now turn their focus to Friday's clash against Niger at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium (kickoff 7pm). The West African side are bottom of the group, having lost both of their opening matches and are yet to register a point.