Bafana Bafana were left frustrated after they played out to a goalless draw against Eswatini in an international friendly match played at the FNB Stadium on Friday.

Mihlali Mayambela was lively for Bafana from the opening whistle, while Sihlangu Semnikati were content to sit back and launch quick counterattacks.

In the fifth minute, Mayambela assisted Themba Zwane, who was denied by custodian Khanyakwezwe Shabalala from close range after a swift home team move.

The Aris Limassol star then teamed up with Khanyisa Mayo, who unleashed a low shot that was well saved by Shabalala in the 27th minute; the score was 0-0 at the break.

Substitutes Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Mduduzi Mdantsane failed to score from close range in the 64th minute as Bafana applied pressure to the opponent’s defence after the restart.

Sihlangu Semnikati then defended resolutely and created a few late opportunities, but they were unable to beat custodian Veli Mothwa, resulting in a scoreless draw.

South Africa: Mothwa, Mobbie, Modiba (Mako 64′), Xulu (Kekana 64′), Sibisi, Mokoena (Mthethwa 46′), Blom (Lepasa 75′), Zwane (Mdantsane 46′), Mayo, Mayambela (Hlongwane 46′), Foster.

Eswatini: K. Shabalala, Twala, Myeni, Magagula (S. Shabalala 86′), Matshe, P. Mkhontfo (N. Dlamini 64′), Mathebula, Ginidza, Manana, Mabelesa, M. Mkhontfo.

Photo by Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix