Bafana Bafana is on the brink of qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. Just one win from their upcoming fixtures will book their place in the tournament.
South Africa (2.70) face Uganda (2.90) on 15 November 2024 and South Sudan on 19 November 2024 in AFCON 2025 qualifying. For the benefit of soccer betting enthusiasts, it is worth breaking down the Bafana Bafana squad.
Goalkeepers
South Africa’s goalkeeping department looks solid. Ronwen Williams, the team captain, leads the group. With extensive international experience, Williams is a safe pair of hands and has proven himself in pressure situations. He commands his area well and offers stability at the back.
Sage Stephens, who has excelled domestically, offers a reliable backup option. Sipho Chaine completes the lineup, bringing strong shot-stopping abilities. Chaine’s quick reflexes add depth, though he still has room to grow at the international level. With this mix of experience and youth, South Africa’s goalkeepers should provide a strong foundation for the upcoming matches.
Defenders
Aubrey Modiba and Khuliso Mudau provide options at full-back, with Modiba known for his attacking flair. Mudau, meanwhile, brings defensive solidity and is strong in one-on-one situations.
Fawaaz Basadien adds another option on the flanks. His pace and energy are assets, especially in counter-attacking situations.
Hugo Broos has yet to settle on a definitive centre-back partnership and will likely continue to experiment in this position. However, it is likely that Siyabonga Ngezana will continue to get significant minutes.
Overall, the defence looks capable of handling the challenges Uganda and South Sudan pose.
Midfielders
Teboho Mokoena is the mainstay of South Africa’s midfield. His work rate and passing range make him invaluable, both in defending and attacking transitions. Mokoena’s ability to break up play and launch attacks will be key.
It is likely that Mokoena will start, given how heavily Broos has relied on him regardless of what has been going on for him at club level. Mokoena has been struggling for game time at Mamelodi Sundowns and has been linked with a move elsewhere. It is less easy to predict who will play with him.
Forwards
Bafana Bafana’s forward line is a mix of pace, power, and creativity. Devin Titus recently replaced Mihlali Mayambela in the squad. Stellenbosch FC’s (41.08) Titus is a quick and skilful winger who offers width. Oswin Appollis is another young attacker, known for his dribbling and direct style. Patrick Maswanganyi adds more options, especially with his ability to play across the forward line.
Evidence Makgopa is a target man up front. His height and strength allow him to hold up play, bringing others into the game. Iqraam Rayners is a versatile forward who can operate centrally or outwide. Rayners’ movement and finishing make him a threat inside the box.
Relebohile Mofokeng is one of the most talented youngsters South Africa has produced in some time and being part of this squad will be a vital opportunity for him.
This forward line offers Hugo Broos the option to mix direct play with quick passing. Their adaptability will be vital against opponents with contrasting styles in Uganda and South Sudan.
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sage Stephens, Sipho Chaine
Defenders: Sydney Mobbie, Mothobi Mvala, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Khuliso Mudau, Fawaaz Basadien, Siyabonga Ngezana
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, Luke Le Roux, Thalente Mbatha
Forwards: Devin Titus, Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi, Evidence Makgopa, Iqraam Rayners, Elias Mokwana, Thapelo Morena, Relebohile Mofokeng.
