South Africa name starting XI for 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea

South Africa begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Guinea at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon, in the first match of Pitso Mosimane’s second spell as head coach.

The game, scheduled for 26 September 2026, is Mosimane’s first since taking over from Hugo Broos earlier this month. South Africa reached the round of 16 at last year’s Africa Cup of Nations, where their campaign ended with defeat by Cameroon.

Mosimane has been forced to make at least one change before kick-off, with defender Nkosinathi Sibisi ruled out of the match.

Guinea are aiming to rebuild national pride after failing to qualify for the 2025 edition of the tournament. Their coach, Paulo Duarte, appeared to begin the mind games on Friday by missing the pre-match press conference to concentrate on the game.

South Africa line up with Williams in goal, behind a defence of Modiba, Okon, Makhanya and Sebelebele. Sithole and Mokoena are named in midfield, with Maseko, Mofokeng and Appollis supporting Rayners.

South Africa’s substitutes are Goss, Chaine, Poggenpoel, Sibisi, Morena, Matuludi, Ndamane, Kabini, Moremi, Seema, Basadien, Aubaas, Zwane, Mailula, Mbuthuma, Singh and Matthews.

Guinea’s starting XI is Sylla, Keita, Sow, Fofana, Sekou Sylla, M. Kourouma, L. Kourouma, Cisse, Balde, Traore and Guirassy.