Bafana starting XI vs Czech Republic: Pirates duo get the nod as Broos makes three changes

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has made three changes to his starting XI to face Czech Republic in their second match at the 2026 World Cup in Atlanta on Thursday (18:00 SA time).

Broos, who was heavily criticised for his back five against Mexico, a game his team lost 2-0 and ended with nine men last Thursday, has also switched formation by reverting to a back four.

Among the three changes is Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha, who will play in a midfield three that also has Teboho Mokoena and Jayden Adams.

How Bafana line up against Czechia

The Bafana coach has also shaken things up in attack, going for Pirates winger Oswin Appollis as well as Cyprus-based forward Thapelo Maseko out wide while Mamelodi Sundowns striker Iqraam Rayners is the main man up front.

In defence, Ime Okon and Mbekezeli Mbokazi will play at centre-back while Khuliso Mudau is deployed at right-back and Aubrey Modiba at left-back. Bafana captain Ronwen Williams retains his place in goal.

South Africa will need a strong start if they want to get a positive result against the Czechs who began their World Cup campaign with a 2-1 loss to South Korea.

With both sides wounded, it is a game neither can afford to lose as that could potentially spell the end of their World Cup campaign even if they would still have a match to spare.