By James Robert Kayindi
After being humiliated in a 3-1 thriller by the Desert foxes of Algeria in their opening game, Bafana Bafana head coach Ephraim Shakes Mashaba has decided to make a double change ahead of their clash with the Lions of Terenga from Senegal.
South Africa will entertain Senegal today at 10:00pm (UG-time) in their second game of the CAF orange Africa Cup of nations in the “group of death”, Group C after dropping to the bottom.
After a very clumsy display against Algeria, first choice goalkeeper Darren Keet has been relegated to the bench and replaced by Jackson Mabokgwane. The back four will be Anele Ngcongca (right-back), Thabo Matlaba (left-back) and central defence pair of Erick Mathoho and Thulani Hlatshwayo who scored an own goal in their 3-1 defeat.
Mathoho returns to the starting lineup after missing the Bafana’s clash against Algeria due to suspension resulting from receiving two consecutive yellow cards during their qualification campaign. He will be replacing injured Rivaldo Coetzee who was dropped from the playing squad.
The midfield and striking line remain untempered with; Dean Furman, Andile Jali, Oupa Manyisa and Thuso Phala (scored South Africa’s only goal in the opening match) will be in the middle while Tokelo Rantie and Sibusiso Vilakazi will be upfront.
In the other game of Group C, Algeria will entertain the Black Stars of Ghana who suffered a 2-1 defeat against Senegal in their opening game at Stade de Mongomo. Kick-off will be at 7:00pm UG-time.
Email Robert: Robert.k.circles@gmail.com
