Soccermag writers Dylan Johnson and Lukhanyo Gqokoma go head to head with their Bafana XIs ahead of South Africa’s match against South Korea.
Dylan’s XI (4-2-3-1)
Bafana Bafana bounced back against Czechia in round two, coming back from a goal down to earn their first point in a World Cup in 16 years. Again there was a costly error in the opening ten minutes, but they did enough to keep themselves in contention for the knockouts, and although it may not be likely, a win would be enough to secure a place in the round of 32. This week, Bafana must build on their performance against Czechia.
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Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns)
It was another strong showing from Ronwen Williams against Czechia, and there is no reason to change things up now. Although there have been calls for Sipho Chaine, I do not see Hugo Broos dropping his captain and consistent performer in such a crucial clash.
Defenders: Aubrey Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ime Okon (Hannover 96), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire), Khuliso Mudau (Mamelodi Sundowns)
I’m sticking with the same backline as round two. Bafana weathered another poor start and costly error at the back to earn a much-needed point. Mbokazi continues to be the standout.
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Midfielders: Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Sphephelo Sithole (CD Tondela), Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
There will be huge boots to fill this week against South Korea, with Teboho Mokoena’s suspension giving Hugo Broos arguably the biggest selection headache of his Bafana coaching career. Mokoena has been the backbone in the middle of the park for club and country for years and scored the vital equaliser against Czechia – he will be missed.
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I think Broos will bring Sphephelo Sithole back into the starting lineup after he served his suspension following a straight red card against Mexico. Thalente Mbatha keeps his place in midfield, and I would love to see Relebohile Mofokeng get his first start of the competition.
He was a bright spark coming off the bench and undoubtedly impacted the match positively. Broos may go more defensive, but I want to see Mofokeng start.
Forwards: Oswin Appollis (Orlando Pirates), Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol)
Oswin Appollis is a non-negotiable pick to start against South Korea. Foster and Rayners are favoured to lead the line under Broos, but I want to see Evidence Makgopa get the nod instead.
With Makgopa up top, Bafana have played their best football at the competition. His relationship with South Africa’s other influential players, like Appollis and Mofokeng, was a big reason for Bafana’s comeback. He needs to start.
I’ve gone with Maseko to complete the attack. His pace and creativity out wide add another option, and he played an influential role in South Africa’s penalty.
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Lukhanyo’s XI (4-2-3-1)
That Czechia draw showed the same pattern again. South Africa started slowly, got stretched in midfield, and looked vulnerable in defensive transition early on. But once the energy improved and the structure became more compact, they grew into the game and looked a far more dangerous side.
This XI is built on that lesson. Start better, be harder to play through, and connect midfield to attack more cleanly.
Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Still the undisputed number one. He kept South Africa in the game during early Czechia pressure with key saves and strong organisation of the back line.
Defenders: Khuliso Mudau (Mamelodi Sundowns), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire FC), Ime Okon (Hannover 96), Bradley Cross (Kaizer Chiefs)
South Africa were again exposed early against Czechia, particularly in dealing with pressure and defensive organisation in the opening phases.
Mbokazi and Okon continue to show promise as a developing central pairing, especially in recovery situations and physical duels, but still need time to refine game management at international level.
Mudau remains important for his energy and forward running on the right. Cross comes in to provide balance on the left and more composure in build up phases.
Midfielders: Jayden Adams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
Czechia controlled too much of the midfield early on, forcing South Africa into reactive positions and limiting their ability to progress the ball cleanly.
Adams offers calmness under pressure and forward progression. Mbatha brings intensity, ball winning, and protection in front of the defence.
Mofokeng is the key change. He altered the game when introduced, linking midfield and attack, receiving between the lines, and driving South Africa forward. He has earned a starting place based on that impact.
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Forwards: Oswin Appollis (Orlando Pirates), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol), Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates)
South Africa lacked penetration for long spells against Czechia, especially in the first half where attacks broke down too easily.
Appollis and Maseko provide direct running and width, stretching opposition defences and creating space centrally.
Makgopa comes in after his performance against Czechia, offering a strong focal point up front with physical presence and improved attacking intent.
Picture: X/@BafanaBafana
