Bafana Bafana is set to host Ghana in a crucial friendly match at Dobsonville Stadium. This encounter will precede their participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled from December 21 to January 18 in Morocco. The friendly is slated for Tuesday, December 16, at 16:00 CAT.
Ghana Friendly Vital for Bafana to Address Issues Pre-AFCON
South African head coach Hugo Broos faces challenges as several European-based players are unable to participate. Changes in FIFA’s player release dates have shifted the timeline, which affects the availability of key players such as Lyle Foster, Shandre Campbell, and Sphephelo Sithole.
Team Composition and Strategies
A significant number of players from Mamelodi Sundowns are expected to feature in the starting lineup. Meanwhile, the fitness levels of Orlando Pirates players will be closely monitored following their recent Carling Knockout victory over Marumo Gallants.
- Kick-off: December 16, 2025, at 16:00 CAT (14:00 GMT)
- Venue: Dobsonville Stadium, Soweto, Johannesburg
- Broadcast: Live on SABC 2 and streaming on SABC Plus
Broos has been under scrutiny for his management decisions, especially regarding Mbekezeli Mbokazi and the exclusion of Thembinkosi Lorch from the squad. Despite these criticisms, Broos remains confident in fielding a predominantly locally-based team. He views this as an advantage, as many competitors rely heavily on overseas players.
Ghana’s Situation
Ghana, coached by Kassim Mingle for this match, will field an entirely uncapped squad. The Black Stars, while not participating in AFCON, recently qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, several key players are unavailable, which may affect their performance.
Expectations are high for South Africa in this match, considering the established strength of the Betway Premiership and the readiness of some overseas players. The main tactical dilemma for Broos involves the crucial no.10 role, traditionally played by Sipho Mbule, although he has not typically played this position in his club career.
Projected Lineups
| Bafana Bafana | Ghana |
|---|---|
| GK: Ronwen Williams | GK: Felix Kyei |
| LB: Aubrey Modiba | LB: Isaac Afful |
| CB: Mbekezeli Mbokazi | CB: Ebenezer Abban |
| CB: Tylon Smith | CB: Razak Simpson |
| RB: Khuliso Mudau | RB: Kamaradini Mamudu |
| CM: Bathusi Aubaas | CM: Salim Adams |
| CM: Teboho Mokoena | CM: Nana Kusi Asante |
| LW: Oswin Appollis | LW: Emmanuel Abban |
| AM: Relebohile Mofokeng | ST: Samuel Attah Kumi |
| RW: Mohau Nkota | RW: Kelvin Nkrumah |
| ST: Evidence Makgopa | CM: Etse Dogli |
The upcoming match against Ghana is seen as a critical opportunity for Bafana Bafana. It is essential for addressing squad dynamics and refining strategies before the AFCON tournament.
