3 reasons why Bafana must win

He selected a youthful squad to represent our country in an African Nations Cup qualifier that kicks off at 19h00 SA time.

There's pressure on Mashaba to live up to expectations. Bafana have to win for a various reasons:

1. They need a morale booster heading towards their meeting with the holding Afcon champions, Nigeria, in Cape Town 5 days later

2. South Africans are very quick to judge. A victory can ease the pressure on Mashaba.

3. In terms of CAF FIFA rankings, Sudan are the lowest team in our group (Nigeria 3rd, SA 14th, Congo 18th and Sudan 36th) which means the other two teams are more likely to collect points against them, so we need to capitalise. We've never beaten Nigeria on their home soil and the Congolese are known for hostility in their backyard.

As much as Shakes is concerned about building, he must make sure that he strikes while the iron is hot by fielding the guys with a bit of international experience. Orlando Pirates players reached the final of the CAF Champios League last year and they should be given the nod.

Mashaba should also, mostly, feature overseas-based players and local players who have donned the Bafana jersey before.

This would be my starting line-up: Itumeleng Khune - Anele Ngcongca, Eric Mathoho, Buhlebuyeza Mkhwanazi, Thabo Matlaba - Oupa Manyisa , Andile Jali , Dean Furman, Mandla Masango - Tokelo Rantie, Bonginkosi Ntuli.

(File Photo:Gallo Images)

Twitter - @benedictnpg @SportswaveAndre