Bafana Bafana take on Canada in the FIFA World Cup round of 32 on Sunday evening, with Hugo Broos’ side aiming to make more history after reaching the knockout stages for the first time.
South Africa secured their place in the last 32 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea in their final Group A match.
The clash against co-hosts Canada will be played in Los Angeles, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00.
Canada progressed as runners-up in their group behind Switzerland, setting up what promises to be a tightly contested encounter.
Here’s how Bafana could lineup against Canada
Goalkeeper
Ronwen Williams is an automatic selection after an outstanding group-stage campaign. The Bafana captain conceded just three goals in three matches and has been one of South Africa’s standout performers at the tournament.
Defence
Khuliso Mudau should continue at right-back, while the central defensive partnership of Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Ime Okon has earned another opportunity after a composed display against South Korea. Aubrey Modiba is expected to keep his place at left-back.
Midfield
Teboho Mokoena is available again after serving his suspension and is expected to slot straight back into the starting XI. He should partner Yaya Sithole, who impressed with his disciplined performance in the previous match. Bafana will need to dominate Canada in the midfield to win the game.
Attack
Relebohile Mofokeng is likely to continue in the attacking midfield role after another lively display. Oswin Appollis should keep his place on the left wing despite not yet reaching his best form in the tournament.
On the opposite flank, Thapelo Maseko is expected to start after scoring the winner against South Korea, while Evidence Makgopa is tipped to lead the line once again.
Predicted Bafana XI against Canada: Ronwen Williams; Khuliso Mudau, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Ime Okon, Aubrey Modiba; Teboho Mokoena, Yaya Sithole; Thapelo Maseko, Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis; Evidence Makgopa.
Bafana Bafana have already achieved a historic milestone by reaching the knockout stages, but another disciplined and clinical performance could see Broos’ men book a place in the last 16 at the expense of Canada.
