Bafana Bafana Prepped for COSAFA Cup Clash Against Mozambique!
Colaboradores
Bafana Bafana are geared up to kick off their 2025 COSAFA Cup campaign with a crucial match against Mozambique at the Free State Stadium. Coach Vela Khumalo is optimistic and aiming for a strong start in this regional tournament, emphasizing the importance of securing an early victory.
Khumalo's Confident Approach
Coach Khumalo brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously led the team to COSAFA Cup victory. He believes his experience coaching youth teams, including the U17 national team at Afcon, has prepared him well for leading the senior squad. “It’s all about how you impart knowledge to the senior players,” Khumalo stated, confident in the talent within the squad.
Focus on Early Momentum
The team's strategy is centred around winning the opening game to build confidence and allow them to implement their playing philosophy. Khumalo wants the team to focus on keeping possession, staying organized, and showcasing South Africa’s unique football identity.
However, Bafana Bafana faced a setback, losing 1-0 to Mozambique in their opening game. This puts them at the bottom of Group A, making the upcoming match against Zimbabwe even more critical.
Facing Zimbabwe: A Must-Win Game
Khumalo acknowledged the changes in the team, driven by coach Hugo Broos's desire to assess players for the main Bafana Bafana squad. He emphasizes the need to win against Zimbabwe to stay in contention. “If we can win that game (against Zimbabwe), we’ll be happy to go further and hope that our opponents are also losing games on the other side and then we can go to the semi-finals,” he said.
Starting Lineup
The team lineup against Zimbabwe includes Mbanjwa, Msani, Okon, McCarthy, Moralo, Dlamini, Mgonyama, Nemtajela, Sebelebele, Mkhize, and Radiopane. The substitutes are Mpoto, Johnson, Dithejane, Mfolozi, Duba, Ramabu, Letsoalo, Shabalala, Gcaba, Letlapa, Barns, and Mcaba.
The COSAFA Cup presents a valuable opportunity for fringe players to impress and potentially earn a place in the main squad. Stay tuned for updates as Bafana Bafana fight for their place in the tournament!