Compiled by Dylan Bettencourt
- Sphephelo Sithole was sent off against Mexico, but Teboho Mokoena’s suspension could open the door for his return.
- Bafana must beat South Korea to keep their World Cup hopes alive and reach the knockout stage for the first time.
Sphephelo Sithole has a chance to answer his critics in Bafana Bafana’s biggest World Cup match.
The midfielder stood alone at Monterrey Stadium as South Africa prepared for their must-win Group A clash against South Korea.
Sithole came under heavy criticism after Bafana’s 2-0 defeat to Mexico. He struggled with the pace of the game, lost possession near South Africa’s box before Mexico scored early, and was later sent off.
Many fans thought his tournament was over.
But Teboho Mokoena is suspended for the South Korea match after getting yellow cards against Mexico and Czechia. Sithole is available again after serving his ban.
That could give him a second chance in the biggest match this Bafana team has faced.
“This is a very important match for us,” Sithole said at Monterrey Stadium, News24 reported.
“We all know that we have to win the match in order to advance to the next round. The team is well prepared, and we are more than ready for the game.”
Thalente Mbatha impressed against Czechia and helped Bafana secure a 1-1 draw, but coach Hugo Broos is expected to keep faith in Sithole.
Sithole said the team stood by him after the red card against Mexico.
“I know that I didn’t have a good game against Mexico. But the response that I got from the team was good. Everyone was supportive, even the coach as well,” he said.
“I am very grateful for that support. That’s what connects us and makes us a good team, because we have very good human beings in the team.”
Bafana must beat South Korea to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Mexico have already reached the knockout stage after winning their first two matches. South Korea are second in Group A with three points, while Czechia and Bafana are third and fourth after their draw in Atlanta.
Bafana must also deal with the Monterrey heat.
“It’s very hot here,” said Broos.
He said both teams would feel the conditions, and the side that adapts better will have a stronger chance of winning.
Broos said Bafana were overwhelmed in their first match against Mexico, but improved against Czechia.
“Now the motivation is there because we can write history,” he said.
“There’s a big motivation inside the group. I feel that the boys will fight for it until the last second of the match to achieve that victory.”
For Sithole, it is a chance to make up for Mexico. For Bafana, it is a chance to make history.
Pictured above: Sphephelo Sithole.
Image source: @BafanaBafana
