Mosimane made some changes to the squad that took part in the 2010 World Cup, which proved to be what Bafana needed as they were the superior team on the night. From the start of the game South Africa's intentions were clear: all-out attack and they almost scored the first goal within minutes. Benard Parker, who was rarely used during the World Cup, showed what he was capable of by producing some thundering runs, beating two defenders to lay off to Katlego Mphela who was one-on-one with Ghana's keeper, but could just finish.
Ghana, on the other hand, looked a bit jittery compared to how they played during the World Cup, making little mistakes that gave Bafana possession and the opportunity to attack. Siphiwe Tshabalala split the defence with a through ball again and Mphela was one-on-one, but Richard Kingson came between Mphela and the goalposts.
As the half went on, Bafana kept piling on the pressure. Steven Pienaar set up Mphela and it was third-time lucky as the striker made no mistake, slipping the ball past the Ghana's goalkeeper to open the scoring.
In the second half, the quality of football seemed to drop for both sides as both coaches decided to make several substitutes, which spoilt the rhythm of the game. Even though Ghana came out all guns blazing, there was no real threat on the South African goal.
In the end Bafana held onto the 1-0 lead and proved they can hold their own with Africa's top teams.
