Pitso Mosimane will be looking to begin his second spell as Bafana Bafana coach with a win when South Africa host Guinea in a 2027 AFCON qualifier on Saturday.
Bafana have qualified for the last two editions of the tournament, and Mosimane knows that reaching another is the standard expected of his team. He has also made his view on home qualifiers clear: they are must-win matches.
Four days after facing Guinea, Bafana will travel to Cairo to play Eritrea in their second qualifier. First, Mosimane has a selection to make for Saturday.
Here is how I think he will set up his side.
WILLIAMS TO EDGE CHAINE IN GOAL
Ronwen Williams and Sipho Chaine have both been regular starters for their clubs, and there is little between them on current form. Williams’ experience at international level could give him the edge for Mosimane’s first match back in charge.
Thabang Matuludi is a strong option at right-back. He deputised for Khuliso Mudau at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and played 80 minutes on his Mamelodi Sundowns debut last Saturday, providing an assist. That outing should have helped his case for a start.
Ime Okon established himself during the World Cup and deserves to continue at centre-back. With Mbekezeli Mbokazi sidelined through injury, Olwethu Makhanya could partner him. Makhanya’s performances for Glasgow Rangers have strengthened his case, while his comfort on either side of central defence gives Mosimane flexibility. Aubrey Modiba should retain his place at left-back.
MOKOENA AND SITHOLE TO ANCHOR MIDFIELD
Teboho Mokoena remains central to Bafana’s midfield. Sphephelo Sithole looks the likeliest player to partner him, giving the side a familiar base behind its attacking players.
Ahead of them, Relebohile Mofokeng has made a compelling case to start. The 21-year-old has begun his spell at Royal Union Saint-Gilloise with four goals and an assist in seven league and Europa League appearances.
WHO LEADS BAFANA’S ATTACK?
With Evidence Makgopa and Lyle Foster out of the squad, Mosimane’s centre-forward choices are Yanela Mbuthuma, Cassius Mailula and Iqraam Rayners. Rayners is the most experienced of the three and would be my choice to lead the line against Guinea.
Thapelo Maseko looks a likely starter on the right after a promising start to life in Europe. On the left, Oswin Appollis could renew an understanding with Mofokeng that served Orlando Pirates well.
Puso Dithejane and Luther Singh will also be pushing for opportunities. For the opening qualifier, though, I get the sense that Mosimane could give the players with established combinations the first chance to deliver the home win he demands.
My predicted XI: Williams; Matuludi, Okon, Makhanya, Modiba; Mokoena, Sithole; Maseko, Mofokeng, Appollis; Rayners.
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