Hugo Broos made several changes to his starting lineup from Friday’s encounter, recalling Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Jayden Adams, and Relebohile Mofokeng. Despite South Africa controlling the tempo early on with smooth link-up play from the midfield trio of Teboho Mokoena, Adams, and Mofokeng, the final third proved to be a familiar stumbling block.
The biggest chance of the opening 45 minutes fell to Hlongwane. Making his first international start since November 2023, the United States-based forward found himself in acres of space on the right side of the box. With only the Panamanian goalkeeper to beat, his effort was tame and dragged wide of the near post.
Lyle Foster, who endured a tough night in Durban, was starved of service throughout the first half. Isolated up front, the Burnley striker managed only one half-chance before being substituted at halftime for Evidence Makgopa.
