South Africa 2-2 Kenya: Ogam’s 90th-minute strike stuns Soweto

Benni McCarthy’s side come from behind twice, Olunga converts from the spot, and Bafana Bafana drop their first points under Pitso Mosimane

By Dr. Talal Othman, General Manager, GCC Sport

South Africa were minutes from a third straight win in 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying when the substitute Ryan Ogam chose a different ending. His long-range shot in the 90th minute silenced Orlando Stadium and earned Kenya a 2-2 draw that few had forecast.

It was harsh on the hosts and fair on the visitors in equal measure. Bafana Bafana had more than 70% of the ball for long spells, but control without a killing touch is a luxury this campaign does not forgive.

The warning came early: Ronwen Williams had to make a fine save inside the opening minute. The goal then came from the high press, which forced the Kenya defender Amos Wanjala to divert the ball into his own net after nine minutes. Kenya retreated into counterattacks, and Ime Okon and Olwethu Makhanya kept Michael Olunga quiet.

Olunga needs only one moment. Just before the break Aubrey Modiba brought him down in the area, and the captain converted the penalty himself in the 44th minute. Kenyan media had him one short of William Ouma’s national record of 35 goals before kick-off, so the strike drew him level.

Kenya emerged after the interval with a different mindset and matched their hosts stride for stride. Mosimane turned to his bench and sent on Lyle Foster, and the response was quick: Foster supplied the pass, and Relebohile Mofokeng lashed a half-volley into the net on 77 minutes. The best player on the pitch appeared to have settled it.

But McCarthy, South Africa’s record goalscorer and back in his homeland for the first time as Kenya coach, had already introduced Ogam. The forward, on loan at RFC Liège, drove deep into the South African half and beat Williams from distance.

South Africa remain top of Group D with seven points from three matches, but the perfect start under Mosimane is over. Kenya, already qualified as co-hosts, move to two points and take something more valuable: belief before Tuesday’s return match in Nairobi.

Match facts

  • Competition: 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying, Group D, Matchday 3
  • Date and venue: 13 November 2026, Orlando Stadium, Soweto
  • Goals: Wanjala 9 (og), Mofokeng 77 / Olunga 44 (pen), Ogam 90
  • Coaches: Pitso Mosimane / Benni McCarthy
  • Return match: 17 November 2026, Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi

  • I left out the full lineups, the referee and the attendance, because I could not confirm them.
  • The Olunga record comes from Kenyan media reports. Check it before you publish.
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