{"id":27780,"date":"2025-09-08T17:02:37","date_gmt":"2025-09-08T15:02:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=27780"},"modified":"2026-03-12T09:53:31","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T07:53:31","slug":"bafana-bafana-starting-xi-that-could-see-them-qualify","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/bafana-bafana-starting-xi-that-could-see-them-qualify\/","title":{"rendered":"Bafana Bafana’s Starting XI That Could See Them Qualify For The World Cup"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Bafana Bafana are on the verge of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Tuesday night\u2019s clash against Nigeria at the Free State Stadium (kick-off 18:00) could be the decisive moment. South Africa top Group C with 16 points, three clear of Benin and six ahead of the Super Eagles. Victory will end Nigeria\u2019s chances of topping the group, while even a draw keeps Hugo Broos\u2019 men in pole position.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the stakes high, Broos\u2019 likely starting XI has the perfect mix of experience, youth, and energy to topple the West African giants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bafana Bafana’s Starting XI That Could Make History<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Ronwen Williams (GK)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The captain has been a wall between the sticks, conceding fewer than five goals in the qualifiers. His leadership and calmness under pressure could be decisive in a tense encounter.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image: Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

2. Zuko Mdunyelwa (RB)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

With Khuliso Mudau unavailable, the Sundowns youngster has stepped up. He impressed as a substitute against Lesotho and now has the chance to cement his place with a disciplined showing against Nigeria.<\/p>\n\n\n

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3. Thabo Moloisane (CB)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The Stellenbosch defender has been consistent for club and country. Despite an injury scare in the Lesotho defeat, he looks ready to anchor the defence and provide the steel Bafana will need.<\/p>\n\n\n

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4. Mbekezeli Mbokazi (CB)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Fans were waiting for a clash with Victor Osimhen, but with the Nigerian star ruled out, Mbokazi must still deal with the Super Eagles\u2019 sharp attackers. His form suggests he\u2019s up for the challenge.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image: Backpagepix<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

5. Aubrey Modiba (LB)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Reliable and experienced, Modiba brings balance on the left. His ability to overlap and deliver dangerous crosses adds an attacking outlet while keeping defensive discipline.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image: Backpagepix<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

6. Bathusi Aubaas (DM)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Expected to start as the holding midfielder, Aubaas will be tasked with breaking up Nigeria\u2019s play and shielding the defence. His composure and ball-winning ability are vital.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image: Backpagepix<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

7. Teboho Mokoena (CM)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The midfield general offers both stability and creativity. Known for his long-range shooting and clever passing, Mokoena has the potential to tilt the game in Bafana\u2019s favour.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image: Backpagepix<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

8. Sipho Mbule (AM)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Creative and versatile, Mbule will look to link midfield with attack. His combination with Mokoena and Aubaas, refined at Sundowns, gives South Africa a fluid engine room.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image: KickOff<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

9. Oswin Appollis (LW)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

In sparkling form, the winger scored against Lesotho and will relish testing Nigeria\u2019s defence. His pace and directness could prove a game-changer.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image: Backpagepix<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

10. Mohau Nkota (RW)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

At just 20, Nkota has already shown maturity beyond his years. Fearless and quick, he could cause nightmares for Nigeria\u2019s full-backs in what will be the biggest game of his young career.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image: Backpagepix<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

11. Lyle Foster (ST)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The Burnley striker is Bafana\u2019s cutting edge. Clinical and confident, Foster thrives on service from the flanks and midfield. If chances fall his way, he could write his name in history.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Image: Gallo Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
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