Pitso Mosimane faces an immediate selection dilemma as he begins his second spell in charge of Bafana Bafana against Guinea in Saturday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
South Africa host Guinea on Saturday, 26 September, at 18:00, with all eyes on the team Mosimane chooses for his first competitive match since returning to the national-team hot seat.
The experienced coach has several attacking options available, and one of the biggest questions is whether he will stick with a conventional striker or use a more fluid attacking setup.
Could Shandre Campbell operate as a false nine?
One possibility circulating ahead of the match is a role as a false nine for Shandre Campbell.
The 21-year-old winger has made six Belgian Pro League appearances for Kortrijk this season, scoring once, although his overall performances have reportedly offered plenty of encouragement.
Deploying Campbell centrally would represent an interesting tactical adjustment from Mosimane and could allow Bafana to use his pace and movement between the lines.
Another option is experienced midfielder Themba Zwane, a player Mosimane knows well and has previously relied upon.
The decision could ultimately depend on whether Mosimane wants a more mobile attacking structure or prefers the experience of a recognised senior figure in a central role.
Mofokeng arrives in strong form
Relebohile Mofokeng is another player expected to attract considerable attention.
The former Orlando Pirates attacker enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 domestic campaign, recording 10 goals and eight assists in 27 league appearances before moving to Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise.
He has continued to make an impact in Europe.
Mofokeng scored the decisive penalty during Union SG’s shootout victory over Club Brugge in the Belgian Super Cup and subsequently opened his Europa League account against Viktoria Plzen.
He has also scored three times in five league appearances this season.
Union SG have won six consecutive matches in all competitions, with Mofokeng providing an assist in the victory over Royal Antwerp.
That run of form could strengthen his case for a prominent role in Mosimane’s first Bafana lineup of his second stint.
Makhanya another player to watch
Olwethu Makhanya is another emerging South African talent who could feature prominently.
The 22-year-old central defender has established himself at Scottish club Rangers and is regarded as one of the younger players capable of making an impression at international level.
His potential inclusion would add further youth to a Bafana side entering a new chapter under Mosimane.
Predicted Bafana Bafana XI vs Guinea
While Mosimane’s official lineup remains to be confirmed, one possible starting XI is:
Williams; Sebelebele, Makhanya, Okon, Modiba; Sithole, Mokoena; Appollis, Mofokeng, Maseko; Campbell.
The biggest talking point could be Campbell’s position and whether Mosimane opts for a false-nine system or selects a more traditional attacking option.
With the coach beginning his second tenure, the first lineup will provide an early indication of how he intends to shape this Bafana team.
Will Mosimane make a surprise selection against Guinea?
