SEDIBENG.-  Bafana Bafana stars Relebohile Mofokeng, Tshepang Moremi, and Thapelo Maseko could all find themselves in the starting line-up for Thursday’s crucial match against Czechia on June 18.

This comes after South Africa suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat against co-hosts Mexico in their opening Fifa World Cup 2026 Group A fixture on June 11.

Many questioned Broos’ decision…

Bafana Bafana performed well below par, and coach Hugo Broos faced heavy criticism for his matchday selections. Many questioned his decision to approach the game with five defenders while leaving speedy, attacking-minded players like Mofokeng, Moremi, Maseko, and Oswin Appollis on the bench.

The situation has been made worse because Bafana Bafana finished the match with only nine players after both Siphephelo Maseko and Themba Zwane received red cards. As a result, Broos will be forced to make wholesale changes to the team that started against Mexico.

As things stand, this is a must-win game if South Africa hopes to progress any further in the tournament, as even a draw will not be enough.

Start attacking players!

Many critics, including former national team players, have urged Broos to start the attacking players against Czechia. There is a strong call for Mofokeng and Moremi to be included, following their outstanding form for Orlando Pirates this past season. The duo could make their very first world cup appearance this Thursday.

Former Bafana Bafana player Augustine Makalakalane was among those who criticised Broos for using the wrong tactics against Mexico.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sedibeng Ster Sport, Makalakalane said the coach’s approach was far too defensive, noting that South African players are traditionally known for being offensive when moving forward. He believed that a player like Moremi should have started the game due to his attacking speed.

The highly anticipated fixture between South Africa and Czechia is scheduled to kick off at 21:00 South African time.

Fan parks will be set up across the country for soccer fans to watch the vital match on big screens, and Sedibeng Ster Sport will provide full highlights of the game.