Bafana Bafana attacker Relebohile Mofokeng poses a headache for coach Hugo Broos as he has to consider starting Themba Zwane in the number 10 role as well.
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Bafana Bafana face Jamaica on Saturday night (11pm SA time) in their final warm-up match before the FIFA World Cup, with several key selection battles still unresolved ahead of next week’s opener against Mexico.
While Hugo Broos has indicated he already has an idea of his preferred starting XI, the Jamaica clash could still prove decisive for a handful of players hoping to force their way into the team.
Captain Ronwen Williams is certain to start in goal, while Khuliso Mudau and Mbekezeli Mbokazi appear nailed on in defence. However, the left-back position remains one of the biggest talking points.
Aubrey Modiba’s experience makes him a strong contender, but concerns remain over the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the second leg of the CAF Champions League final.
Even if fully fit, Modiba faces competition from Samukelo Kabini, who has impressed whenever called upon.
Kabini offers greater physicality and defensive assurance, while Modiba provides more attacking thrust and significantly more international experience.
With Bafana expected to spend long periods without the ball against Mexico, Broos must decide which profile best suits his game plan.
Alongside Mbokazi at centre-back, another selection battle is emerging.
Olwethu Makhanya and Ime Okon appear to be the leading contenders for the vacant spot. Both possess the height and physical presence that could complement Mbokazi’s qualities.
Okon may have a slight advantage after spending the season in Germany’s Bundesliga II, while Makhanya continued his development in Major League Soccer.
The Jamaica match could provide the final clue as to who gets the nod against Mexico.
Lyle Foster remains favourite to lead the attack despite enduring a difficult period.
The Burnley striker’s confidence took another knock following his penalty miss against Nicaragua, while Broos has also suggested the forward may not yet be at peak fitness after missing the closing stages of the English season.
Yet Foster’s ability to hold up play and bring teammates into attacking situations could prove crucial against Mexico.
If Broos opts for a more direct approach focused on exploiting space behind opposition defenders, Iqraam Rayners may enter the conversation.
However, Foster’s overall profile still appears better suited to the expected demands of the match.
Tshepang Moremi faces growing pressure from Thapelo Maseko for a starting berth.
Moremi was one of Bafana’s standout performers during the Africa Cup of Nations campaign, but a dip in form has opened the door for Maseko.
The Mamelodi Sundowns winger offers greater explosiveness and goal threat, though defensive discipline will be equally important against stronger opposition.
Oswin Appollis is expected to occupy one flank, leaving Broos to choose between Moremi and Maseko on the other.
Perhaps the most intriguing selection debate is in the number 10 role.
Relebohile Mofokeng arrives in camp full of confidence after a stellar campaign with Orlando Pirates, while Themba Zwane is gradually working his way back to full sharpness after injury.
Mofokeng provides energy, unpredictability and attacking flair, but Zwane’s experience and ability to control the tempo of matches remain invaluable.
Broos has repeatedly highlighted his admiration for Zwane’s influence in the final third, making this one of the toughest calls facing the coach.
The Jamaica fixture is expected to provide the clearest indication yet of whether Bafana are physically and mentally ready for the challenge that awaits against Mexico.
With the World Cup opener now days away, Broos’ biggest decisions may still be made on Saturday night.