Who steps in for Mokoena? News24’s writers select Bafana XIs to face South Korea

News24’s football writers select their Bafana XIs for the team’s must-win World Cup match against South Korea at the Monterrey Stadium.

Hugo Broos needs to get his selection and tactical approach right for what might be his final game as Bafana Bafana coach against South Korea in Monterrey.

Bafana must win this match to prolong their stay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and make history by becoming the first senior men’s South African team to reach the knockout stage of the tournament.

Their campaign is at a crossroads and the country is anxiously waiting for what will be a 03:00 kick-off in the early hours of Thursday morning in Mzansi.

When many Bafana supporters wake up at around 02:00 on what will be a South African winter morning, they will check their phones for the team Broos will deploy for the must-win game.

The team they see will determine whether some go back to bed, have optimism or lose all hope.

The line-up has to be positive.

As much as Broos has to put together a team that will combat what South Korea brings to the table, he has to focus on his side’s strengths.

Bafana have to build on the final 20 minutes they had against Czechia, where they had a 4-2-3-1 setup.

This formation ensures Bafana will have a solid defensive structure while being a threat on attack.

Influential captain Ronwen Williams retains his place in goal.

The back four of Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon, Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Aubrey Modiba are settled.

The suspension of midfield general Teboho Mokoena means Broos has a tough call to make in midfield, with Jayden Adams, Thalente Mbatha and Sphephelo Sithole the options.

Adams has started every game so far, and because of his versatility in the middle of the park and game awareness, he gets my selection.

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