Who starts for Bafana? The predicted XI against Morocco!

Bafana are roaring into the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations, their sights set on a titanic clash against Morocco in the Round of 16. After a shaky start with a 2-0 loss to Mali, Bafana bounced back with a resounding 4-0 victory over Namibia and a gritty goalless draw against Tunisia to secure their place among the continent’s best.

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With two quarter-final appearances in their last three Afcon outings, Coach Hugo Broos’s men are hungry for more. But facing the formidable Atlas Lions demands a tactical masterclass and the perfect Bafana starting XI. So, who will take the field for Bafana in this high-stakes encounter?

BAFANA’S DEFENSIVE BEDROCK: A WALL AGAINST THE ATLAS ONSLAUGHT

Between the sticks, captain Ronwen Williams stands resolute. Despite conceding two goals against Mali, he kept clean sheets in the subsequent matches and will be aiming for another Bafana shutout against Morocco.

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In front of him, a solid backline is crucial. Khuliso Mudau, having recovered from a minor setback, is expected to reclaim his right-back berth ahead of Nyiko Mobbie, offering his attacking prowess down the Bafana flank. On the left, the dependable Aubrey Modiba should retain his spot.

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The central defensive partnership has been a revelation, with Grant Kekana usurping the experienced Siyanda Xulu and forming a formidable pairing with Mothobi Mvala. Their communication and aerial dominance will be key against Morocco’s physical forwards.

BAFANA’S MIDFIELD ENGINE: DICTATING THE TEMPO, ORCHESTRATING ATTACKS

In the heart of midfield, the metronomic Teboho Mokoena provides defensive steel and visionary passing. His long-range shooting adds another dimension to Bafana’s attack.

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Alongside him, Sphephelo Sithole brings youthful energy and tenacity, completing a Bafana midfield duo that can both shield the defense and launch attacks.

ATTACKING SPARK: LIGHTING UP THE ATLAS LIONS’ DEN

Further forward, the ageless wizard, Themba Zwane, remains Bafana’s talisman. His ball control and eye for goal could unlock the Moroccan defense. On the wings, Percy Tau, already on the scoresheet in this Afcon, will be eager to add to his tally, a winning goal against Morocco etching his name in Bafana lore.

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Thapelo Morena‘s energetic runs down the right have earned him plaudits, and he’ll be vying for another Bafana start. Up front, despite facing criticism, Evidence Makgopa enjoys Broos’s backing and will likely lead the Bafana line. His physical presence and goal-poaching instincts could trouble the Moroccan backline.

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Bafana’s path to Afcon glory is fraught with challenges, but with a determined spirit, tactical nous, and the right starting XI, they can roar past the Atlas Lions and write their own chapter in continental football history. The battle lines are drawn, and the Afcon stage awaits.