Gordon Igesund names strong starting XI

The team included both of the tour’s highest profile players, Ajax Amsterdam’s Thulani Serero and Lokeren’s Ayanda Patosi.

Meanwhile, Bafana’s other overseas-based players — Anele Ngcongca (Racing Genk) and Tokelo Rantie (AFC Bournemouth) — were also named among the starters, while young Thato Mokeke slots in at left-back.

Erick Mathoho, who will leave the team on Tuesday morning and return to South Africa following the death of his cousin, starts in the heart of the defence and will be accompanied by Thabo Nthethe.

Hlompho Kekana and Reneilwe Letsholonyane were rewarded for their solid Premiership campaigns back home and will lead out the midfield, while Thuso Phala’s pace down the right will provide Igesund with some added firepower in attack.

Themba Zwane will make his debut for South Africa, should he come on as a replacement.

Bafana Bafana starting line-up: Senzo Meyiwa, Anele Ngcongca, Thabo Nthethe, Erick Mathoho, Thato Mokeke, Hlompho Kekana, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, Thuso Phala, Ayanda Patosi, Thulani Serero, Tokelo Rantie.

Replacements: Ronwen Williams, Buhle Mkhwanazi, Sibusiso Khumalo, Bongani Zungu, Temba Zwane, Siyabonga Nhlapho, Siphelele Mthembu.

– Sapa