Bafana Bafana turn their attention to Eritrea as they prepare for their second 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier under returning head coach Pitso Mosimane.
South Africa opened their qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Guinea, with Ime Okon and Samukele Kabini finding the net to secure three important points.
The result also marked Mosimane’s first competitive match since returning to the Bafana Bafana hot seat following the departure of Hugo Broos.
With another qualifier arriving quickly, Mosimane could rotate his starting lineup as he manages his squad and responds to an injury picked up in the opening match.
When is Bafana Bafana vs Eritrea?
Bafana Bafana will face Eritrea in Egypt on Wednesday evening, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00 South African time.
The match is another important Group D fixture, with South Africa looking to build on their opening victory.
A second successive win would take Bafana to six points from two matches and strengthen their position in the qualifying campaign.
Aubrey Modiba injury
One of the major selection concerns heading into the match is the fitness of Aubrey Modiba.
The Mamelodi Sundowns defender suffered a hamstring problem during the victory over Guinea and is expected to miss the Eritrea clash.
Samukele Kabini could therefore move into Modiba’s position after making a decisive contribution against Guinea.
Mosimane could also make a change at right-back, with Thabang Matuludi potentially coming into the starting XI for Kamohelo Sebelebele.
At centre-back, Olwethu Makhanya and Ime Okon could retain their partnership after helping South Africa secure victory in the opening qualifier.
Changes in attack?
Mosimane could also make adjustments in the attacking areas.
Yanela Mbuthuma is tipped to lead the line, while Puso Dithejane could be given an opportunity on the left wing.
Relebohile Mofokeng and Thapelo Maseko are also expected to feature as Bafana look to create more opportunities against an Eritrea side that will be hoping to frustrate the South Africans.
The final XI will only be confirmed closer to kick-off, meaning the predicted lineup remains subject to change.
Bafana Bafana predicted XI vs Eritrea
Ronwen Williams; Thabang Matuludi, Ime Okon, Olwethu Makhanya, Samukele Kabini; Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole; Relebohile Mofokeng, Puso Dithejane, Thapelo Maseko; Yanela Mbuthuma.
Bafana will be looking to make it back-to-back victories and maintain their early momentum in the race for qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament.
