Despite a sluggish beginning to their 2025 COSAFA Cup campaign, Bafana Bafana have received a major vote of confidence from pundits, former players, and supporters who believe the South African national team can regroup and go all the way to lift the regional title.
South Africa, who are among the tournament favourites, opened the campaign with an underwhelming performance, drawing criticism for their lack of urgency and cohesion in the opening group matches. However, signs of improvement have emerged in recent games, with the squad showing resilience, tactical discipline, and glimpses of attacking flair.
Football analysts say Bafana Bafana’s slow start could be a blessing in disguise, helping the team build momentum gradually rather than peaking too early. With several youngsters and fringe players given an opportunity to prove themselves, head coach Helman Mkhalele has been working to strike the right balance between experience and emerging talent.
A former Bafana Bafana star, speaking to local media, shared an optimistic outlook:
“It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. This team is growing in confidence, and once they hit their rhythm, they are capable of beating anyone in this tournament. They just need to keep believing and improving game by game.”
Mkhalele has also remained calm under pressure, emphasizing the importance of patience and unity within the squad. His rotation policy and tactical adjustments have begun to pay dividends, with the team now eyeing a place in the knockout rounds and ultimately a shot at the title.
The belief in the camp remains strong, with players voicing their determination to bring the trophy home. For many of them, the COSAFA Cup is more than just silverware—it’s a platform to impress national selectors ahead of bigger competitions, including the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Bafana Bafana last won the COSAFA Cup in 2021 and are looking to reclaim regional dominance. As the tournament progresses, fans will be hoping that their team’s improved form turns into a title-winning run, proving that even after a slow start, champions can rise.
