Bafana Bafana’s best starting XI which can help Pitso at AFCON

Bafana Bafana will face Guinea and Eritrea later this month in the AFCON qualifiers.

These matches will mark Pitso Mosimane’s first games in charge since taking over as Bafana Bafana head coach from Hugo Broos.

‘Jingles’ has already named his preliminary squad for the two fixtures, with a few new faces included. His final squad is expected to be announced in the coming days.

How Bafana Bafana could line up

With everyone fit and available, here is how the strongest Bafana Bafana starting XI could look.

In goal, Ronwen Williams is expected to retain his place ahead of Sipho Chaine and Ricardo Goss.

Khuliso Mudau remains the first-choice right-back, with Kamohelo Sebelebele providing competition and cover.

At centre-back, Ime Okon could keep his place in the starting XI ahead of Olwethu Makhanya and Lebone Seema.

However, if Mosimane opts for what could be considered his strongest centre-back pairing, Seema should partner Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

The two defenders enjoyed a successful partnership at Orlando Pirates and could potentially reunite for Bafana when Mbokazi returns to the national team setup.

At left-back, Aubrey Modiba remains a reliable option, although he could face increased competition from some of the exciting young left-backs coming through.

In midfield, Sphephelo Sithole is likely to retain his place, with Teboho Mokoena playing alongside him. Thalente Mbatha could provide cover or come into the starting XI when Bafana face stronger opposition and require additional energy in midfield.

Further forward, Relebohile Mofokeng could be one of the key players in Mosimane’s attack. The youngster can operate as a number 10 or from either wing, giving the coach plenty of tactical flexibility.

The biggest question could be the number nine position. Lyle Foster and Yanela Mbuthuma have struggled to find the back of the net consistently, leaving Mosimane with a decision to make in attack.

Bafana Bafana’s best starting XI

Ronwen Williams; Khuliso Mudau, Lebone Seema, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Aubrey Modiba; Sphephelo Sithole, Teboho Mokoena; Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, Thapelo Maseko; Lyle Foster.