With South Africa’s 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against the Gambia on June 4 approaching, Bafana coach Shakes Mashaba has selected a 23-man squad to do battle against The Scorpions.
The Independence Stadium in Bakau will be the venue for the encounter, with Bafana mathematically still in with a chance to qualify, though their chances are slim and reliant on results outside of their control in the two remaining matches.
The Gambians languish at the bottom of qualifying Group M, with only two points from four games thus far. South Africa have earned three points and currently trail leaders Cameroon and Mauritania with eight and seven points respectively.
The last time the two sides met, a goalless stalemate was the result in June last year, earning the sides a single point each.
A youthful squad reflects the need for Bafana to build for the future, while the likes of Dean Furman and Andile Jali in midfield, and Itumeleng Khune in goal will add stability with their experience.
Full Squad:
Goalkeepers: Itumeleng Khune, Jackson Mabokgwane, Brighton Mhlongo.
Defenders: Erick Mathoho, Sifiso Hlanti, Rivaldo Coetzee, Tebogo Langerman, Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Diamond Thopola, Thabo Matlaba.
Midfielders: Andile Jali, Thulani Serero, Hlompho Kekana, Keagan Dolly, Dean Furman, May Mahlangu, Thapelo Morena, Mpho Makola, Mandla Masango.
Strikers: Sibusiso Vilakazi, Thamsanqa Gabuza, Ndumiso Mabena, Thobani Mncwango.