Mosimane begins second Bafana Bafana spell with Guinea test

Pitso Mosimane will begin his return as Bafana Bafana head coach when South Africa host Guinea in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Group D match at Orlando Stadium tomorrow.

South Africa are aiming to make a strong start on home soil before travelling to Egypt to face Eritrea next Wednesday.

Ronwen Williams is expected to captain the side from goal, with Kamogelo Sebelebele, Ime Okon, Olwethu Makhanya and Aubrey Modiba forming a possible back four.

Makhanya has made an impressive start to life at Glasgow Rangers since moving from Philadelphia Union, earning regular praise for his performances in Scotland. He was not given the chance to play at the FIFA World Cup under former Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, but is among the players expected to become central to Mosimane’s plans.

Sebelebele has established himself as Orlando Pirates’ first-choice right-back and could take advantage of Khuliso Mudau’s injury absence to secure the position for the national team.

Okon played in every match at the World Cup as a central defender alongside the absent Mbekezeli Mbokazi. Modiba, who is Bafana Bafana’s regular left-back, is also expected to retain his place.

Mokoena and Sithole likely to anchor midfield

Teboho Mokoena and Sphephelo Sithole are set to continue in central midfield after building a dependable partnership under Broos.

The pair are now expected to provide the foundation of Mosimane’s midfield, while Relebohile Mofokeng could operate in the number 10 position.

Mofokeng has been in strong form since joining Royale Union Saint-Gilloise after the World Cup and is expected to provide creativity behind the forwards.

Appollis and Maseko provide width

Oswin Appollis and Thapelo Maseko are possible choices on the wings, with Iqraam Rayners set to lead the attack.

The combination would give Mosimane a front three offering pace, creativity and finishing ability as he begins his second spell in charge.

A possible Bafana Bafana line-up is: Ronwen Williams; Kamogelo Sebelebele, Ime Okon, Olwethu Makhanya, Aubrey Modiba; Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole; Relebohile Mofokeng; Oswin Appollis, Thapelo Maseko; Iqraam Rayners.