With just one day to go until Bafana Bafana open their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations account against Ivory Coast, snl24.com/kickoff looks at who could run out at the Al Salam Stadium on Monday.
Goalkeeping
Stuart Baxter faces a slight headache in the absence of long-standing number one Itumeleng Khune, who was ruled out through a shoulder injury, with Darren Keet and Ronwen Williams – who share a total of 16 senior caps between them – vying for the position between the sticks. However, it is likely that Keet will retain his place following his solid performance in their qualifying victory over Libya back in March.
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Defence
With Baxter having earlier admitted that Thamsanqa Mkhize is the current best right-back in the PSL, the Cape Town City skipper is expected to start ahead of Kaizer Chiefs' Ramahlwe Mphahlele, who has been a shadow of his old self in recent times. He has been quite consistent with his central pairing of Bidvest Wits duo Buhle Mkhwanazi and Thulani Hlatshwayo, so it is quite unlikely that this will change unless circumstances force him to. Left-back Sifiso Hlanti has made the position his own in recent times, with Innocent Maela expected to remain his deputy.
Midfield
Arguably Bafana's strongest department, with no shortage in ability or experience. With Dean Furman boasting the most caps (50) out of his peers, most of whom will be making their tournament debuts, it's anticipated the former skipper will occupy that holding midfield position, while Kamohelo Mokotjo's performance in the victory over Libya makes him a strong contender to partner Furman once again. Though, a case for the industrious veteran Hlompho Kekana is also strong for a starting berth. Given Keagan Dolly's absence through injury, Thulani Serero or Lebohang Maboe is expected to play a wider role in midfield, with Themba Zwane likely to operate on the opposite side – save for a different formation adopted by Baxter.
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Forwards
Percy Tau is arguably the only certainty, having established himself as Bafana's flagship forward in the last two years with nine goals in 18 appearances. With Tau being the more mobile option, alongside him could be a target-man in Lebo Mothiba or Lars Veldwijk, who would be expected to hustle and bustle their way in and amongst the burly Ivorian defenders. Sibusiso Vilakazi could also be an option as a second-striker, operating behind Tau rather than alongside or ahead of him.
Predicted Bafana XI: Keet, Mkhize, Hlatshwayo, Mkhwanazi, Hlanti, Furman, Mokotjo, Zungu, Zwane, Tau, Mothiba