South Africa kicked off their 2027 qualification campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Guinea at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

Goals from Ime Okon and Samukele Kabini gave Bafana Bafana a deserved advantage, with both players finding the net to hand the hosts a winning start.

Guinea responded with a goal in the 69th minute, but South Africa held firm to secure all three points and begin their campaign on a positive note after Samukele Kabini’s left-footed shot from the centre of the box to the centre of the goal. Assisted by Yamela Mbuthuma.

In the day’s other qualifier, Kenya fought back to earn a 1-1 draw against Eritrea. Nahom Girmai Netabay put Eritrea ahead, giving the visitors hope of a famous victory.

However, Kenya struck late through Ryan Ogam, who tapped home from close range at the near post to cancel out Netabay’s opener and rescue a valuable point.

The result ensured Kenya avoided defeat as both sides settled for a share of the spoils in an entertaining encounter.