By Michael Madyira
Bafana Bafana head into their Africa Cup of Nations opening Group E match against Mali on Tuesday amid serious concerns over what looks like a blunt strikeforce.
The match at the Stade Amadou Gon Coulibaly is set to test the abilities of the Orlando Pirates attacking duo of Evidence Makgopa and Zakhele Lepasa.
Focus will also be on supporting forwards Percy Tau and Mihlali Mayambela as Bafana look handicapped upfront due to the unavailability of Lyle Foster and Lebo Mothiba.
Last week’s international friendly against less-fancied Lesotho, which ended 0-0, brought to the fore attacking frailties that haunt Bafana.
“When we come to Foster and Mothiba, I don’t have much grasp about them but the country is rich in terms of talent,” former Bafana Bafana coach Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba told Scrolla.Africa.
“If you look at the selected team, are we going to be good and strong in moulding that team to be one?” he asked.
“It doesn’t matter who we play as long as those who play know why they are in the team.”
Worrying Bafana fans could be the fact that Makgopa and Lepasa, the men entrusted with leading the team’s attack, have been struggling for form at club level.
Makgopa’s five goals in 17 appearances across all competitions do not inspire confidence.
Lepasa last found the back of the net in September after starting the season in terrific form with 10 goals in less than two months.
“What has happened is we have the selection of the team by the technical staff according to their plan and intentions. It is difficult to ask why player so-and-so is not there because we haven’t even played the first game,” said Mashaba.
“We wish the team good luck.”
The Buccaneers duo’s inclusion in the team sparked debate over the omission of Cape Town City forward Khanyisa Mayo, who has been consistent in front of goal since last season.
Pictured above: Bafana Bafana players Evidence Makgopa, Grant Kekana and Themba Zwane at training in Korhogo, Ivory Coast.
Image source: Bafana Bafana
