Bafana Bafana begin a new chapter under Pitso Mosimane when they face Guinea in an important Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Saturday.
With a new coach in charge and several attacking players in good form, South Africa will be looking to make a positive start to Mosimane’s latest spell at the helm.
When do Bafana Bafana play Guinea?
Bafana Bafana will face Guinea on Saturday, 26 September 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.
The fixture gives Mosimane an immediate opportunity to assess his squad in a competitive match as South Africa continue their AFCON qualification campaign.
Predicted Bafana Bafana XI
A possible starting XI could see Ronwen Williams in goal, with Khuliso Sebelebele, Makhanya, Okon and Aubrey Modiba forming the defensive line.
In midfield, Sithole and Teboho Mokoena could start, while Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng and Thapelo Maseko provide attacking support for Lyle Foster?
Predicted XI: Williams; Sebelebele, Makhanya, Okon, Modiba; Sithole, Mokoena; Appollis, Mofokeng, Maseko; Rayners.
Aubaas faces questions over Bafana selection
Bathusi Aubaas is among the players in the squad who have attracted attention ahead of the Guinea clash.
The midfielder has made three Betway Premiership appearances this season and registered one assist. His recent league involvement has been limited, having made 14 appearances during the 2024-25 campaign.
His selection has prompted debate among some supporters, particularly given his limited recent attacking output.
For Mosimane, however, the Guinea match provides an opportunity to assess Aubaas within a new tactical setup and determine how he fits into the coach’s plans.
Mofokeng arrives in impressive form
One player expected to attract plenty of attention is Relebohile Mofokeng.
The Bafana playmaker recently converted the decisive penalty during a shootout victory over Club Brugge in the Belgian Super Cup final.
He has also made a strong start to life at Union SG, scoring his first Europa League goal in a 3-0 victory over Viktoria Plzen.
Mofokeng has added three league goals in five appearances, while Union SG have put together a six-match winning run across all competitions.
His recent performances give Bafana another exciting attacking option as Mosimane prepares for his first competitive assignment.
Can Mosimane start with a victory?
The Guinea fixture will be closely watched as Bafana begin a new era under Mosimane.
With players such as Mofokeng and Appollis offering attacking creativity, South Africa will hope to turn their individual quality into a strong team performance.
The big question is whether Mosimane can mark his return with a winning start.
Bafana Bafana vs Guinea takes place on Saturday, 26 September at 18:00.
