Bafana and Kenya’s predicted XI: Mokoena, Mbokazi back as Kaizer Chiefs target returns

Bafana Bafana will face off with Benni McCarthy’s Kenya in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday evening.

The two teams head into the match on the back of contrasting fortunes as South Africa have won back-to-back games while Harambee Stars drew one and lost another.

With coaches Pitso Mosimane and McCarthy looking for maximum points, how they field their teams will be crucial. Afrik-Foot predicts how Bafana Bafana and Harambee Stars are likely to line up.

Bafana Bafana’s predicted XI

Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams

He returned to action on Sunday for his club Mamelodi Sundowns and will be ready to start.

Right-back: Thabang Matuludi

The Sundowns man will retain his place in the absence of the injured Kamogelo Sebelebele.

Left-back: Aubrey Modiba

Back after his injury, the Sundowns star is set to reclaim his position.

Central defence: Mbekezeli Mbokazi

Another one returning after an injury, the Chicago Fire man will be among the first names on the team sheet.

Central defence: Ime Okon

He has impressed since Mosimane came in and scored against Guinea, which will see him retain his place.

Central midfield: Teboho Mokoena

He also returned from injury on Sunday and is a welcome boost in midfield.

Central midfield: Yaya Sithole

The Portugal-based star has his critics but continues to be trusted by coaches.

Attacking midfield: Relebohile Mofokeng

The Belgian-based man will be relied on for creativity and goals.

Right wing: Tshepang Moremi

The Orlando Pirates star offers dynamism, pace and goals on the wings.

Left wing: Oswin Appollis

He is still adapting to Mosimane’s way of playing but he brings goals and assists.

Striker: Iqraam Rayners

The Sundowns striker has been in good form lately with four goals since the last international break and will be relied upon upfront.

Kenya’s Predicted XI

Goalkeeper: Byrne Omondi

The experienced Gor Mahia man is Kenya’s first-choice and is highly-rated by Benni McCarthy.

Right-back: Ronney Onyango

The Norway-based defender combines attacking threat and defensive solidity well.

Left-back: Abud Omar

Now playing for Tusker FC, the left-back is the most experienced Harambee Stars player among those selected to face Bafana.

Central defence: Haniff Wesonga

Young, athletic and physically imposing, the South Sudan based star impressed in his last outing.

Central defence: Frank Odhiambo

The Gor Mahia defender is currently the best locally-based centre-back in Kenya.

Central midfield: Manzur Okwaro

Now based in France, the 20-year-old is one of McCarthy’s favourites due to his calmness and versatility.

Central midfield: Alwyn Tera

Received a rare call-up for this AFCON qualifier but is well-versed due to his long stint in Europe where he now plays for Ararat-Armenia.

Attacking midfield: Mohammed Bajaber

One of Benni McCarthy’s trusted men, the playmaker has an eye for a good pass and goals.

Right wing: Job Ochieng

The Real Sociedad winger has been a revelation in La Liga this season and Bafana defenders will have to watch him.

Left wing: Ben Stanley  

He divides opinion among Kenyans but the Gor Mahia forward delivers when he gets the chance and he is one of those McCarthy highly rates.

Striker: Michael Olunga

The Kenyan captain is the second most experienced in the current squad and returns to the fold after a one-year hiatus. The striker, who has been linked to Kaizer Chiefs previously, is two goals away from becoming Kenya’s all-time top scorer.