Teboho Mokoena's wonder goal leads Bafana Bafana in thrashing of Congo

Bafana Bafana stormed to an emphatic 5-0 triumph over the Republic of the Congo, firmly asserting their control over Group K in the race for 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification. 

In front of a jubilant 40,000-strong crowd at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Bafana Bafana delivered a commanding performance that propelled them joint-top of Group K alongside Uganda, both with 7 points.

However, Uganda holds a slight advantage on the log due to their superior away goals in head-to-head matches.

Congo, now sitting stagnant with 3 points, remain in third place, while South Sudan, without a point, are anchored at the bottom of the table.

Teboho Mokoena was the star of the night for Bafana in Gqeberha, netting a stunning brace - one from a clinical header and the other a spectacular strike that could go down as one of the finest goals in Bafana's history. 

His efforts were bolstered by goals from Bathusi Aubaas, Lyle Foster, and Iqraam Rayners, with Bafana's clinical finishing dramatically boosting their goal tally.

With this resounding win, Hugo Broos' men can now confidently head to Brazzaville for Tuesday's away leg (18:00) at the Alphonse Massemba-Débat Stadium, knowing they've set the tone for the doubleheader. 

Victory in Congo could solidify their qualification bid, and with the momentum from this dominant win, they'll be eager to continue their form on the road.

And so it ends in Gqeberha!!! What a game!!! pic.twitter.com/G4XG1NyweL

In the buildup to the Afcon qualifier, the actual football fixture seemed like a mere backdrop to the unfolding drama.

Broos had to manage more than just tactics.

Young midfielder Jayden Adams was removed from the squad due to disciplinary reasons, while Congo's national team faced their own crisis.