Khumalo eyes comeback against Zimbabwe in COSAFA Cup – SAFA.net

7 June 2025 – After South Africa’s disappointing 0-1 defeat to Mozambique in the opening match of the 2025 COSAFA Cup in Mangaung on Wednesday, coach Vela Khumalo reflected on the setback with a mixture of honesty and determination.

He admitted that the result was disappointing but also remained optimistic, saying the team is ready to bounce back in Saturday’s clash against neighbours Zimbabwe. Khumalo pointed out that while they missed chances and made avoidable mistakes, the players are eager to show their character and improve. With his experience and deep belief in the talent of his squad, he’s confident they can turn things around.

“Look, the preparations went well and we have a few changes, but at the same time we’re not saying this because we are under pressure. No, it is not because of that. It’s all about coach Hugo (Broos) seeing some of the players he wanted to see in this tournament for the Bafana Bafana main team,” he said. “I think everything is going well so far, we just need to win the game tomorrow so that we are in a good space. If we can win that game (against Zimbabwe), we’ll be happy to go further and hope that our opponents are also losing games on the other side and then we can go to the semi-finals.
“But honestly speaking, I think so far so good. I still maintain that we have a good team with good talent. Let’s see how far we can go in this tournament.”
Khumalo’s focus is firmly on recovery and redemption. While the loss to Mozambique was a setback, his confidence in the team’s ability to respond speaks volumes.
With lessons learned and the spirit in the camp still very high, Khumalo is backing his players to rise to the occasion against Zimbabwe and reignite their COSAFA Cup campaign.

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