Three key players for Bafana Bafana in their AFCON opener vs Mali

Bafana Bafana haven’t contested an AFCON tournament since 2019 but they’re finally back in the big time. Where will their opener against Mali be won and lost?

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Midfield battle is key for Bafana Bafana in AFCON opener

Teboho Mokoena has been the South African Premier Division’s outstanding midfield general for over a season. In the competitive environment of a major tournament, matches are won and lost in the engine room and Mokoena will have his work cut out against Mali. This is arguably one of the biggest matches of the Sundowns man’s career, with the Malian Eagles boasting genuine quality in the centre of the park with Tottenham’s Yves Bissouma and RB Leipzig destroyer Amadou Haidara at the base. Mokoena will not only need to keep an eye on Bissouma’s probing and smart movement but also the playmaking skills of Moussa Doumbia. He has assisted Mali’s last three goals scored in open play at the Africa Cup of Nations and scored six goals for the Mali national team, more than any other player in the squad for the tournament.

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Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena on how his game evolved since moving to Sundowns. Image Source: (@MamelodiSundowns)

Team effort for Broos’ men

Mokoena won’t be alone though with expected midfield partner Sphephelo ‘Yaya’ Sithole willing to share the load. It’s going to be tough toil for the Bafana pairing though. Just ahead of them, the playmaking abilities of Percy Tau will be pivotal to South Africa’s chances of getting a positive result against FIFA’s 51st-ranked nation. Midfield is Mali’s strongest area by far, and Bafana will have to be ready for that.

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The delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament kicked off on Saturday, 13 January in the Ivory Coast. Image Source: (@BafanaBafana/Twitter)

What are the key battles in your mind? Let us know in the comments section below. Bafana against Mali kicks off on Tuesday 16 January at 22:00.

Meanwhile, hit up James Freemantle for more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game.

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