Respect the Underdog: Why Pitso Mosimane Refuses to Take Resilient Eritrea Lightly

Bafana Bafana will be aiming to build on their winning start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign when they face Eritrea at Al-Salam Stadium in Cairo, Egypt, on Wednesday evening.

South Africa opened their Group campaign with an important 2-1 victory over Guinea at Orlando Amstel Arena in Soweto, collecting three valuable points to move to the top end of the standings. Eritrea, meanwhile, began their qualification journey with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Kenya in Nairobi.

Despite securing victory in their opening fixture, Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has warned against complacency as his side prepares for another crucial encounter away from home.

Speaking ahead of the match, Mosimane revealed that the team travelled immediately after their victory over Guinea and had to carefully manage the players’ recovery ahead of the Eritrea clash.

The experienced coach explained that the long trip presented logistical challenges, but praised his squad for responding professionally. He noted that the players had recovered well through rest, naps and carefully planned training sessions designed to keep the squad fresh for Wednesday’s showdown.

While many supporters may view South Africa as favourites, Mosimane made it clear that Eritrea must not be underestimated. The Bafana Bafana mentor pointed to Eritrea’s performance against Kenya as proof that they are capable of competing against strong opposition.

Mosimane also highlighted the threat posed by one of Eritrea’s key attackers, a striker currently playing club football in Egypt. The coach believes Eritrea possess enough quality to punish any team that fails to approach the match with the necessary focus and discipline.

The former African champions know that a victory in Cairo would strengthen their position in the group and place them in an excellent position early in the qualification campaign. Bafana Bafana have spoken openly about their ambition of securing qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament and understand the importance of collecting points away from home.

Mosimane has therefore challenged his players to display the same work ethic, hunger and commitment that helped them defeat Guinea. He emphasised that maintaining consistency throughout the campaign will be critical if South Africa are to remain among the group’s frontrunners.

With confidence high following their opening victory, Bafana Bafana will enter Wednesday’s encounter determined to secure another three points. However, Mosimane’s message remains clear: respect the opposition, stay focused on the task at hand and continue building momentum as the road to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations gathers pace.