Shakes ' shake-up for Senegal clash

Mashaba has made seven changes to the squad to the squad that played against Mauritania in the CAF Orange Africa Cup of Nations Gabon 2017 qualifier that took place in Nouakchott on Saturday, 5 September. Bafana Bafana lost 3-1.

Goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune will captain South Africa against Senegal, while Orlando Pirates’ midfielder Mpho Makola will make his national team debut.

Mashaba has been forced to shuffle his central defence pairing of Rivaldo Coetzee (ankle) and Eric Mathoho (shoulder) are out injured – the latter has since been released from the squad to start with rehabilitation.

In comes Clayton Daniels, Mzikayise Mashaba and Siyabonga Nhlapho alongside Anele Ngcongca at the back.

In the middle of the park, Andile Jali retains his place and will be joined by Bongani Zungu, Daylon Claasen and debutant Makola.

Thamsanqa Gabuza will lead the strike force assisted by Sibusiso Vilakazi.

Making way in this match are Siyabonga Zulu, Dean Furman, Mandla Masango, Thulani Serero and Tokelo Rantie, who is celebrating his birthday today.

Ayanda Patosi is not part of the squad after he was released from camp on Sunday due to an urgent family commitment.

“A lot has happened over the last few days, and I know your heads are down. But this is a new game, the nation waits patiently for us to do well, so let’s go out there and make them and ourselves proud. I have great confidence in you to do well, it won’t be easy but let us do our best,” said Mashaba.

SA starting XI vs Senegal: Itumeleng Khune (GK) (c), Anele Ngcongca, Clayton Daniels, Siyabonga Nhlapho, Bongani Zungu, Mzikayise Mashaba, Mpho Makola, Daylon Claasen, Andile Jali, Sibusiso Vilakazi, Thamsanqa Gabuza,
Subs: Jackson Mabokgwane (GK), Ronwen Williams (GK), Dean Furman, Thulani Serero, Mandla Masango, Jabulani Shongwe, Phumlani Ntshangase, Themba Zwane, Siyabonga Zulu, Tokelo Rantie

Out injured: Rivaldo Coetzee, Eric Mathoho

ANA