This is probably the one area where Baxter will have the most concern.
Thulani Hlatshwayo and Buhle Mkhwanazi have played together in central defence in Bafana’s last three qualifiers and they’ve done a great job, but both players are not in the best form right now at club level for Bidvest Wits.
The Clever Boys have kept just two clean sheets in the last 10 matches. Wits have been guilty of conceding some soft goals.
Rivaldo Coetzee has returned to action for Mamelodi Sundowns and could be an option for Baxter.
Coetzee has helped Bafana qualify for AFCON in the past, when Shakes Mashaba was still coach of the senior national team.
Daniel Cardoso has done fairly well for Kaizer Chiefs in recent weeks, while Taariq Fielies and Siyanda Xulu are options.
Sundowns’ Motjeka Madisha, who was in the last squad, has not been playing much and is not likely to be included.
At right back, Cape Town City captain Thamsanqa Mkhize is certain to make the squad and could even be in the starting line-up on match day.
Mkhize has been in good form and is most likely to be a candidate for the Absa Premiership Defender of the Season award.
At left back Baxter is almost certain to go with Sifiso Hlanti and Innocent Maela of Wits and Pirates.