counter Mokoena’s 50th cap: Bafana starting 11 vs Zambia – Forsething

Mokoena’s 50th cap: Bafana starting 11 vs Zambia

Bafana Bafana’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations take another step forward.

They host Zambia in an international friendly, a clash that will be broadcast live on SABC 1 and SuperSport at 15:00.

STARTING LINE-UP: BAFANA BAFANA vs ZAMBIA

Coach Hugo Broos has made a surprise change in defence as Samukelo Kabini replaces Aubrey Modiba who was superb against Rwanda in the previous game.

Orlando Pirates star Tshepang Moremi has come in at right wing while Mohau Nkota drops to the bench.

Full line-ups…

South Africa: Williams, Mudau, Mbokazi, Sibisi, Kabini, Mokoena, Sithole, Mbule, Moremi, Appollis, Foster

Subs: Chaine, Goss, Nkota, Aubaas, Ndamane, Makgopa, Matuludi, Makgalwa, Modiba, Nemtajela, Moloisane, Mbatha

Zambia: To be confirmed.

AFCON 2025 AND THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP

Bafana Bafana enter the fixture from a position of stability. Hugo Broos’ side have already booked their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup and are now fully focused on building rhythm ahead of the AFCON tournament in Morocco next month. The goal is clear: improve on last year’s third-place finish and chase a first continental crown since 1996.

The friendly offers Zambia a valuable test against a well-drilled South African team, while South Africa use the occasion to sharpen combinations, assess depth and maintain momentum. Both nations have qualified for AFCON 2025, with Zambia set to line up in Group A alongside Morocco, Mali and Comoros. Mzansi will be in Group B with Egypt, Angola and Zimbabwe.

Also read: Top 5: Bafana Bafana’s most-capped players of all time

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