South Africa’s campaign at the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), held in Tunisia, was a mixed affair that ultimately ended in disappointment, as Bafana Bafana failed to progress beyond the group stage.

Drawn in Group D alongside Nigeria, Morocco, and Benin, the South African national team entered the tournament with hopes of rekindling the success of their 1996 championship win, but they struggled to find consistency on the pitch.

The team was coached by April ‘Styles’ Phumo, a respected figure in South African football who had stepped into the role under challenging circumstances following the departure of Ephraim ‘Shakes’ Mashaba just weeks before the tournament.

Despite the turmoil, Phumo inherited a squad boasting experienced players and emerging talents, including goalkeeper Andre Arendse, midfield general Macbeth Sibaya, the skillful Jabu Pule, and attacking threats such as Siyabonga Nomvethe, Sibusiso Zuma, and Delron Buckley. Veteran John ‘Shoes’ Moshoeu brought leadership and flair, while Patrick Mayo added versatility across the field.

South Africa began their campaign on a positive note with a 2-0 victory over tournament debutants Benin, thanks to a second-half brace from Nomvethe. The win offered early promise and temporarily silenced doubts about the team’s preparation and managerial changes.

However, the optimism was short-lived. In their second group match, South Africa faced continental giants Nigeria, a team brimming with talent and experience. The Super Eagles dismantled Bafana Bafana with a dominant 4-0 win, exposing glaring defensive vulnerabilities and a lack of cohesion. The loss was a heavy blow, not just in terms of scoreline but also morale.

Nigeria’s superior organisation and firepower overwhelmed South Africa, and questions began to arise about the team’s tactical discipline and resilience under pressure.

Heading into their final group match against Morocco, South Africa needed at least a draw and favourable results elsewhere to have a chance of progressing. The encounter was tense and hard-fought. Bafana Bafana managed to secure a 1-1 draw, with Patrick Mayo scoring their only goal. While the team showed improved spirit and fight, it wasn’t enough. Morocco’s solid tournament form and earlier results ensured they progressed, leaving South Africa in third place in the group with four points.

The 2004 AFCON campaign was seen as a step backward for South African football. Despite flashes of individual brilliance – particularly from Buckley, Zuma, Nomvethe and Mayo – the team lacked the consistency and tactical unity needed to succeed at the highest level. The early exit prompted a national conversation about the state of football in the country, including player development, coaching structures, and administrative issues.

In hindsight, South Africa’s 2004 AFCON journey was a reflection of a team in transition. While the squad featured a blend of youth and experience, it lacked the strategic foundation to mount a serious challenge. The tournament served as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for long-term planning and stability in the national set-up.