afana Bafana face their sternest test of the international break on Sunday evening, taking on Egypt in a friendly in Cairo. With Pitso Mosimane expected to rotate, three players could be handed a chance to impress.
A Step Up in Class
Mosimane has made a strong start as Bafana coach, beating Guinea 2-1 before hammering Eritrea 5-0. Egypt are a different proposition. As one of Africa’s traditional heavyweights, they should show the new coach how his side measures up against top opposition.
With several changes expected, players who have seen less action in the opening two games could get their moment.
1. Sipho Chaine: Goalkeeper’s Opportunity
The Orlando Pirates keeper is 28 and one of the more experienced members of the squad, yet his international minutes have been limited. Ricardo Goss is also in the mix, and Mosimane may use the friendly to compare his goalkeeping options. Cairo could be Chaine’s chance to stake a claim.
2. Puso Dithejane: Pace on the Wing
The young winger’s form in Major League Soccer with Chicago Fire earned him a national team call-up. A first Bafana start would let him show Mosimane his pace and attacking threat against a strong opponent.
3. Themba Zwane: Experience in Midfield
Zwane has not started for Bafana in some time, but with Teboho Mokoena unavailable, the veteran’s know-how could be valuable in the middle of the park. The match gives him a chance to remind the new coach what he offers.
Looking Ahead
Mosimane is expected to use the game to test different combinations, giving several players a platform as the team builds under its new coach.
Which of the three would you start? Tell us in the comments.
