Mosimane admits South Africa’s draw with Kenya feels like a loss

South Africa dropped valuable points at home after twice losing the lead against Kenya, and coach Pitso Mosimane has conceded that the result feels like a defeat, according to iDiski Times.

How the match unfolded

South Africa went ahead through an own goal by Kenya’s Amos Wanjala. Kenya levelled when Michael Olunga scored from the penalty spot.

Relebohile Mofokeng then put the hosts back in front, making it 2-1. Kenya hit back again late on, with Ryan Ogam scoring the equaliser to share the points.

Mosimane explains his substitutions

Speaking at the post-match press conference at Orlando Amstel Arena, Mosimane was asked whether the draw felt like a loss. “Yes, you’re right,” he replied.

He said that once South Africa were 2-1 up, he made changes meant to protect the lead. He brought on a holding midfielder to help calm the game, along with two wingers he knew would run at the opposition.

Mosimane said the changes were also a response to Kenya moving to a 5-3-2 formation in the second half. He wanted the wingers to support Aubrey and Matuludi on the flanks, and the fresh legs to strengthen the midfield.

He accepted that the plan did not work. “But that’s football for you, right? Two goals is not enough,” he said. He added that playing good football and dominating possession count for little if a team does not take its chances. In his words, ball possession does not win games.

Looking ahead

Mosimane said the team did not want to qualify the hard way, but that its position remains in its own hands. He wants South Africa to stay where they are on the log and finish there.

“It’s sad, it’s a bit hard. But it’s part of the game,” he said. He added that the squad now has to show its character and keep fighting, because it has worked hard to reach its current position.

The source report does not say which competition the match formed part of, or give details of South Africa’s next fixture.

This story is based on reporting by iDiski Times.