As South Africa prepares to kick off their AFCON 2025 campaign against Angola this Monday, the mood in the camp is at an all-time high. Under Hugo Broos, Bafana Bafana has transformed into a continental powerhouse, coming off a bronze-medal finish in the previous edition and recently securing their first FIFA World Cup qualification since 2002.
However, despite a historic 20-match unbeaten streak, a glaring weakness remains that could derail their dreams of emulating the legendary Class of ’96.
The Fortress: Defense and Midfield
Broos has built a team that is notoriously difficult to break down. The stability starts at the back and flows through the center:
- The Wall: Captain Ronwen Williams anchors the goal, supported by a disciplined backline featuring Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Khuliso Mudau, and Aubrey Modiba.
- The Engine Room: Teboho Mokoena, a former Team of the Tournament selection, remains the heart of the midfield, controlling the tempo and breaking up opposition play.
The Achilles’ Heel: A Lack of Clinical Finishing
While the defensive and midfield structures are elite, Bafana Bafana faces a serious drought in the final third.
The team boasts incredible flair on the wings with youngsters like Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, and Mohau Nkota. However, the central striking roles remain a concern:
- The Goal Drought: Both Lyle Foster and Evidence Makgopa have struggled to find the back of the net consistently in recent outings.
- The AFCON Mandate: In a knockout tournament, chances are few and far between. Analysts suggest that for Bafana to reach the final, their strikers must contribute at least three goals collectively to take the pressure off the midfield.
