The stage is set for an intense clash as South Africa gears up to face Benin in the final match of gameweek one in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday afternoon.
Amidst the competitive Group C, the hosts, South Africa, are anticipated to challenge for the top spot alongside Nigeria.
This match offers them an opportunity to secure an early lead after the group’s initial matches concluded with draws.
Match Preview:
South Africa enters this fixture as the favorite, carrying a streak of resilience with five undefeated matches in all competitions, clinching two wins and three draws.
Under the helm of new head coach Hugo Broos, Bafana Bafana earned a spot in the forthcoming African Cup of Nations tournament in Ivory Coast.
Their next objective is to initiate a strong campaign for a place in the World Cup finals, a feat they haven’t achieved since 2010.
Broos’ tenure has been marked by positive integration between a youthful squad and seasoned players, along with daring selection choices.
Demonstrating their prowess, Bafana Bafana defeated Morocco during the AFCON qualifiers and held Ivory Coast to a 1-1 draw in an away match last month, showcasing their capability against strong opponents.
However, South Africa faces a challenge with key player absences, necessitating reliance on their squad depth for this crucial initial match.
On the other side, Benin enters this fixture as underdogs, exhibiting average form with one win, two draws, and two losses in their last five matches in all competitions.
Under the new leadership of Gernot Rohr, known for guiding Nigeria to a bronze medal in the 2019 AFCON, Benin faces the daunting task of securing their maiden World Cup qualification.
The team comprises skilled players, including Ligue 1’s Brest forward, Steve Mounie.
These teams met once before during the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia, where South Africa emerged victorious with a 2-0 win.
Forms:
South Africa: L-W-D-W-D-D
Benin: D-W-D-L-D-L
Team News:
South Africa encounters injury setbacks, excluding Lebo Mothiba, Thapelo Maseko, and Grant Kekana from the squad.
Elias Mokwana, Evidence Makgopa, and Thapelo Xoki have been called up as replacements, while Burnley’s Lyle Foster has stepped away from football for mental well-being.
For Benin, Jodel Dossou, a key player despite club career challenges, scored in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier defeat.
Former France junior international Cedric Hountondji is expected to feature in central defense.
Predicted Lineups:
South Africa:(4-2-3-1)
Williams;
Morena, Hlatshwayo, De Reuck, Maela;
Mokoena, Maboe;
Tau, Zwane, Singh;
Grobler
Benin:(4-3-3)
Allagbe;
Sankamao, Hountondji, Adenon, Tijani;
Dodo, Ahlvini, Olaitan;
Assougba, Aiyegun, Dossou
Prediction: South Africa 2-1 Benin
Under new management, South Africa appears stronger. While Benin aims to put up a fight, South Africa’s improvements make them the favorites in this encounter.
