There’s a new reality around this Bafana Bafana team. After finishing third at the previous AFCON, South Africa are no longer a team to underestimate.
The first test will be against Angola on Monday at 19:00 at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.
AFCON 2025: HOW WILL BAFANA BAFANA LINE UP AGAINST ANGOLA?
Despite it being his first AFCON, Mbekezeli Mbokazi looks set to start. That leaves one slot alongside him, with Nkosinathi Sibisi and Siyabonga Ngezana competing for the place. This will be a tight call for Broos, but Sibisi should get the nod to partner with his Orlando Pirates teammate Mbokazi for added chemistry.
Khuliso Mudau and Aubrey Modiba should start on either side of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
Midfield will once again see Broos’ loyal workhorses: Teboho Mokoena and Sphephelo Sithole.
The most interesting call comes in attack. Elias Mokwana will make the surprise start on the right wing, with Relebohile Mofokeng set to watch from the bench. The thinking is simple: ease the youngster into the AFCON stage before unleashing his talent later in the match.
On the left, Oswin Appollis is a sure pick. Sipho Mbule is expected to operate in the number 10 role in the absence of Themba Zwane, with Lyle Foster leading the line.
FULL EXPECTED STARTING LINE UP:
Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams; Right-back: Khuliso Mudau, Central defender: Nkosinathi Sibisi, Central defender: Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Left-back: Aubrey Modiba; Central midfielder: Sphephelo Sithole, Central midfielder: Teboho Mokoena; Right winger: Elias Mokwana, Attacking midfielder: Sipho Mbule, Left winger: Oswin Appollis; Striker: Lyle Foster.
Meanwhile, the likes of Mofokeng, Thalente Mbatha, Tshepang Moremi and Mohau Nkota are expected to influence the game from the bench in the second half.
What are Bafana Bafana’s AFCON 2025 group-stage fixtures?
- Angola vs South Africa – Monday, 22 December (19:00)
- South Africa vs Egypt – Friday, 26 December (20:00)
- South Africa vs Zimbabwe – Monday, 29 December (18:00).