{
  "id": 19601024,
  "title": "Three Bafana players to watch against Kenya",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/12/three-bafana-players-to-watch-against-kenya",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-12T04:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/soccer/local-soccer/three-bafana-players-watch-kenya/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Bafana Bafana resumes their 2027 Africa Cup of Qualification Group D campaign on Friday, facing Benni McCarthy’s Kenya at Orlando Stadium. The victory could give Pitso Mosimane's side a healthy lead in the group, where they aim to accumulate nine points out of nine during the match against Kenya on November 17.\n\nBafana's central defense has become both a blessing and a curse for Mosimane. While the coach has several talented defenders to choose from, deciding who starts the match proves challenging. Mbekezeli Mbokazi is set to return from injury, having missed the previous Bafana camp. His impressive performances for both club and country this year suggest he will likely start against Kenya, potentially leaving Ime Okon or Olwethu Makhanya out of contention.\n\nRelebohile Mofokeng has emerged as a top choice for Pitso Mosimane's teamsheets. The player has consistently impressed, particularly in the opening qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, as well as his stellar performances with Belgian side Union St Gilloise in both the Belgian top flight and UEFA Europa League. Mofokeng's telepathic understanding with former Pirates teammate Oswin Appollis is worth watching during the match against Kenya.\n\nAnother player to watch for Bafana is Tshepang Moremi. The wing-back has returned to scoring form with Orlando Pirates ahead of this international break. With Thapelo Maseko currently injured, Mosimane might consider turning to Moremi's international experience against Kenya.",
  "summary": "Phakaaathi takes a look at three players who could be vital to Bafana grabbing all three points.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}