Mosimane warns Guinea that Bafana Bafana are ready for Guirassy challenge

Pitso Mosimane believes South Africa can contain the threat posed by Guinea when the two sides meet in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

Guinea, known as the Syli National, arrived in South Africa on Monday and completed their squad only on Friday. Portuguese coach Paulo Duarte has selected a blend of youth and experience, although at least six senior players are unavailable, including former captain Naby Keita.

Mosimane has nevertheless identified Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy as a particular danger for Bafana Bafana.

“Guinea has a top striker who has been scoring goals for Borussia Dortmund, he is a top number 9 and a big boy, so we have to make sure that we deal with his aerial strength and his other capabilities,” Mosimane said.

“The team sheet is not where we play the game and we have to go out and show that on Saturday.”

Only one team from Group D will qualify alongside hosts Kenya for the 2027 AFCON, making victory in the group essential for South Africa if they are to reach next year’s PAMOJA AFCON. Eritrea completes the group.

Mosimane explains Matuludi selection

Mosimane has also defended the inclusion of newly signed Mamelodi Sundowns right-back Thabang Matuludi, despite the defender having played no official match until last weekend’s FIFA African Asian Pacific Cup fixture against Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli.

The coach said Matuludi’s performances had been monitored during his time at Polokwane City before his move to Sundowns.

Mosimane has retained most of the players selected by his predecessor, Hugo Broos, for the 2027 FIFA World Cup as part of his continuity plan. Matuludi was included in that squad.

Injuries to several players who travelled to the World Cup in the US and Mexico have created opportunities for at least 10 new selections. Those called up include Luther Singh and Cassius Mailula, who had not been involved with Bafana Bafana for some time.

Mosimane said the assessment of the wider player pool began before his appointment.

“I have been checking Luther Singh all the time. A lot of guys have been doing well and they need to be given an opportunity,” he said.

“We should also remember someone like Matuludi also went to the World Cup under the previous coach so there is a very good reason why he is here after all, and he also played a cup final last Saturday at a very decent level.”

South Africa’s emerging talent

With the SAFA national teams at under-20 and under-23 level offering an increasing number of options, and several South African players recently moving to Europe, Mosimane said younger footballers would be considered when they merited selection.

He compared the approach to the way World Cup-winning coach Rassie Erasmus has developed depth in the Springboks.

“We need to learn from the Bokke, and we really have to start stacking our talent. It doesn’t matter who plays, it’s important for that winning culture to remain,” Mosimane said.

“I’ve always used young players, and I don’t need to justify that some of these young players like Cassius Mailula is here, because these guys are playing at the highest level week in and week out.”

“I want to cause a revolution in South African football, not only with Bafana Bafana but also in respect to youth football.”