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Bafana to dig deep against Niger

───   MORGAN PIEK 09:45 Thu, 14 Aug 2025

Bafana to dig deep against Niger | News Article
Thabiso Kutumela. Photo: SAFA

Bafana Bafana head into their must-win African Nations Championship Group C clash against Niger in Kampala on Friday (14/8) with renewed confidence.

It will be South Africa’s third game in just a week and could propel them to the top of the group, with a final match still to come against co-hosts Uganda. This, however, depends on Guinea managing to beat the defending champions, the Desert Foxes of Algeria, while South Africa will need to secure all three points.

Niger have lost both of their previous games to Guinea and Uganda and will no doubt come out fighting.

Thabiso Kutumela and Neo Maema. Photo: SAFA

Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns striker Thabiso Kutumela, who scored the winner against Guinea on Monday, said the victory has certainly boosted both his confidence and that of the team ahead of the crunch match.

“I’m happy for myself and for the team. We’re progressing really well – we’re on four points now as we head into another game on Friday, where we need to make it seven,” said Kutumela.

“I’m glad I can help the team move forward. When you get your chance and your confidence is growing, it means you’re reaching your best form.


“It also means you’re happy with where you are. You have to accept it, adapt to it, give more in every training session, and score more goals, so that when match day comes, it feels easier.”

Kutumela admitted that the game against Guinea had been physically demanding, especially given the quick turnaround after their opening match against Algeria just a few days earlier. He stressed the importance of digging deep and finding the energy to meet the challenge.

“For me personally, I hadn’t played much last season. I managed to train on my own, but training in the gym isn’t the same as a real game,” Kutumela added.

“So yes, we were tired against Guinea. I think what really drained us was the first game against Algeria.”

Friday night’s crucial clash at Mandela National Stadium kicks off at 19:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs

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