Pretoria - Bafana Bafana are expected to bounce back when they take on Senegal in their second group stage match of the 2015 Africa Nations Cup (Afcon) at Mongomo stadium later this evening.
Following their disappointing start at the continental showpiece which saw them losing 3-1 against Algeria on Monday, tonight’s match is a do or die for Bafana Bafana. Kick-off is at 9pm South African time.
A win without conceding more goals will enhance Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba and his boys’ chance to advance to the next stage of the tournament.
However, should they lose; they will wait to play for pride in their last group stage match against a star-studded Ghana next week Tuesday at Mongomo stadium.
To lift the South African supporters’ mood, Mashaba has made two changes for what is promising to be an exciting match against Senegal.
The Bafana mentor dropped Belgium-based goalkeeper, Darren Keet who conceded soft goals in the opening match against Algeria. As a result, Mpumalanga Black Aces goalkeeper, Jackson Mabokgwane will start in goals.
Playing in front of Mabokgwane will be Eric “Tower” Mathoho who returned after a one-match suspension following two yellow cards accumulated in the qualifying stages of the tournament.
The other players are Anele Ngcongca at right-back, Thabo Matlaba at left back and Thulani Hlatshwayo who scored an own goal in the opening match.
Both Mathoho and Mabokgwane will be playing in their first Afcon tournament.
The midfield remains unchanged with Dean Furman, Andile Jali, Oupa Manyisa and Thuso Phala. Once again, Furman will captain the side.
Tokelo Rantie, who missed the penalty against Algeria and Sibusiso Vilakazi retain their places upfront.
Bafana Bafana XI: Mabokgwane, Ngcongca, Matlaba, Mathoho, Hlatshwayo, Jali, Manyisa, Furman, Phala, Vilakazi and Rantie.
Substitutes: Keet, Khuzwayo, Gcaba, Sangweni, Zwane, Letsholonyane, Masango, Zungu, Parker, Nhlapho and Ndulula. The only injured player is Coetzee. - SAnews.gov.za
