Black Galaxies suffer narrow defeat to South Africa

The Black Galaxies suffered a narrow 1–0 defeat to South Africa on Tuesday in an international friendly at the Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto.

A second-half strike from Sipho Mbule proved decisive, handing Bafana Bafana victory in a match used as part of their preparations ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.

Ghana fielded an all-domestic squad after failing to qualify for the Mundial, giving head coach Kassim Mingle the opportunity to assess local talents ahead of future assignments.

Coach Mingle deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Lawrence Osei of Heart of Lions starting in goal.

Kamaridini Mahamudu of Medeama and Isaac Afful of Samartex occupied the full-back positions, while captain Razak Simpson partnered Ebenezer Annan at the heart of the defence.

The midfield trio comprised Etse Dogli, Salim Mohammed and Kusi Asante, providing both cover and creativity. Prince Owusu led the attack, supported by Seidu Suraj and Emmanuel Annor.

South Africa dominated proceedings in the first half but were unable to find a breakthrough despite sustained pressure.

After the restart, Sipho Mbule broke the deadlock with a well-taken long-range effort to give the hosts the lead.

Ghana pushed for an equaliser and came close when substitute Rudolf Mensah rattled the woodwork.

The Black Galaxies also threatened again, but a fine save from goalkeeper Ricardo Goss denied them a late leveller.

South Africa held on to their advantage until the final whistle, sealing the win in front of their home supporters. The match also served as a farewell to the Bafana Bafana fans ahead of the team’s departure to Morocco for the AFCON.

Despite the defeat, coach Kassim Mingle will take positives from the encounter as the Black Galaxies turn their focus to preparations for the upcoming CHAN qualifiers.