South Africa Name Strong Starting XI for Crucial AFCON Qualifier Against Mauritania
South Africa head coach Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba has confirmed his starting line-up for Bafana Bafana’s second-round Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Mauritania, as they look to bounce back from a disappointing opening draw.
Mashaba has opted for experience and stability in key areas, notably entrusting Anele Ngcongca and Zitha Macheke Zulu to anchor the defence at the heart of the backline. With South Africa needing all three points to climb to the top of their group, the coach has sent out a side full of attacking intent.
Captain Itumeleng Khune returns between the posts, bringing leadership and calm to the side. He will be shielded by a back four of Ngcongca, Zulu, Rivaldo Coetzee, and Eric Mathoho, all of whom have featured prominently for the national team in recent campaigns.
In midfield, Dean Furman and Andile Jali will offer energy and bite in the central roles, while Thulani Serero provides creativity just ahead of them. Wide men Mandla Masango and Thamsanqa Gabuza are expected to offer pace and width, supporting the strike force led by Tokelo Rantie, who will be aiming to make an impact up front.
Mashaba’s men were held to a frustrating draw in their opening qualifier and are under pressure to deliver a result that would reignite their AFCON 2017 qualification campaign.
“We know we have to win this match,” said a source close to the squad. “There’s no room for error. The players are focused, and the coach believes this starting XI has what it takes to bring back the three points.”
South Africa Starting XI vs Mauritania:
Khune (captain) – Ngcongca, Zulu, Coetzee, Mathoho – Furman, Jali, Serero – Masango, Gabuza, Rantie.
With several players in strong domestic and international form, Bafana Bafana will be confident of claiming victory away from home. However, Mauritania will not make it easy, especially on home soil where they will look to capitalise on the pressure facing the visitors.
Victory is essential if South Africa are to keep pace with the leaders in their qualifying group and avoid a more complicated path to the 2017 finals in Gabon.
