Khoza hails South Africa’s unity after unlikely midfield shift
Malibongwe Khoza says South Africa’s resilience and togetherness were key to holding Algeria in their 1-1 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group C clash – despite him playing in a position he had never occupied before.
The Mamelodi Sundowns defender, thrust into a central midfield role, delivered a tireless performance and was rewarded with the Man of the Match award.
Yet, in typical fashion, the 21-year-old was quick to deflect the praise towards his teammates.
“The award belongs to the group”
“First of all, I’d like to give thanks. I’m very happy with this draw, considering we conceded very early, but I have to say this award belongs to the group, not just to me. The most important thing is that we got the point,” Khoza said.
His comments came after South Africa battled back from an early setback to claim a vital point against one of the tournament’s favourites at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala.
Abdennour Belhocini’s opener for Algeria was cancelled out by Thabiso Kutumela just before half-time.
The result keeps Molefi Ntseki’s side firmly in contention for a quarter-final place heading into the decisive round of group matches.
New role, same commitment
What made Khoza’s performance stand out was the fact he was operating well outside his usual comfort zone.
“I have never played as a midfielder and it has been an experience playing in this position. I am confident in my team and we are here to play,” he explained, reflecting on a display that blended industry, composure and tactical awareness.
Against an Algerian side renowned for its technical precision, Khoza’s ability to adapt was central to South Africa’s tactical balance.
Credit to the coach
Khoza was also quick to highlight the role of coach Molefi Ntseki in forging a sense of unity within a relatively new-look squad.
“The team doesn’t know each other very well yet, but the excellent work our coach has done helps create unity and cohesion in the group, and we are here to fight until the end. We want to qualify from the group stage. We will fight until the end,” he said.
It is a sentiment that mirrors the coach’s own emphasis on tactical organisation and collective effort, qualities that were on display as South Africa restricted Algeria’s attacking threats for much of the match.
South Africa’s CHAN equation
The draw means South Africa head into their final Group C fixture with their hopes still alive. Victory over Uganda in their last game could secure a place in the knockout rounds, though they may also need to keep an eye on goal difference if the group ends in a tie.
For Khoza, though, the focus remains firmly on the squad’s shared ambition rather than personal accolades – a trait that could prove decisive as the competition’s pressure intensifies.