Black Galaxies head coach Kasim Mingle Ocansey has tipped South Africa’s Bafana Bafana to be among the contenders for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after his side’s narrow 1–0 defeat in Tuesday’s international friendly.

Despite the loss, Mingle praised his youthful Ghanaian squad, who had only three weeks of preparation before facing Hugo Broos’ men.

Mingle’s Reflections

On Ghana’s performance:

“It’s a very good performance from our boys… Having only three weeks in camp and coming to play against Bafana Bafana, I’m satisfied with what I’ve seen.”

On South Africa’s strength:

“They are very solid, very tactical. We watched some of their clips and blocked some of their moves… The goal they scored was a gifted goal from our mistake. Bafana is a very strong team.”

On AFCON prospects:

“I’m sure they are one of the contenders of the AFCON, so I think they can do better at AFCON.”

Match Recap


  • Result: South Africa 1–0 Ghana (friendly).

  • Goal: Sipho Mbule (57’) — the only shot on target of the game.

  • Ghana’s squad: Entirely home-based players, preparing for CHAN qualifiers.

  • South Africa’s approach: Tactical, possession-based, though Mingle noted Ghana successfully neutralised their wing play.
AFCON 2025 Context

  • South Africa’s Group B opponents: Egypt (record holders), Zimbabwe, Angola.

  • Tournament dates: December 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026, in Morocco.

  • Opener: South Africa vs Angola on December 22.

Mingle’s comments underline both the promise of Ghana’s rebuilding project and the strength of South Africa’s AFCON challenge. While the Black Galaxies showed resilience despite limited preparation, Bafana Bafana’s tactical solidity and depth make them genuine contenders in Morocco.