Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Bafana Bafana © Gallo Images
South Africa will want to bag their third win in the 2018 Caf African Nations Championships (Chan) qualifiers when they host Zambia on Saturday afternoon at Buffalo City Stadium.
Kick-off is at 3pm.
With both sides coming fresh from wins over Botswana and Swaziland, the final round of qualifiers is set to be a thriller with the winner set to qualify for the tournament in Kenya.
The hosts will have a different line-up as many players pulled out of camp due to the 2017/18 Premier Soccer League season set to start soon.
Both coaches, Stuart Baxter and Wedson Nyirenda will urge their players to remain disciplined in front of goal and ensure they use every chance they create.
Head-to- head:
Last seven results
13/06/2017 Friendlies 2017South Africa 1-2 Zambia
04/01/2015 Friendlies 2015 South Africa 1-0 Zambia
17/07/2013 Friendlies 2013 South Africa 0-0 Zambia
14/11/2012 Friendlies 2012 South Africa 0-1 Zambia
27/01/2009 Friendlies 2009 South Africa 1-0 Zambia
24/10/2007 Friendlies 2007 South Africa 0-0 Zambia
30/01/2006 Africa Cup of Nations 2006 Egypt Zambia 1-0 South Africa
What the teams are saying:
Bafana Bafana midfielder Menzi Masuku:
“It’s always a special feeling to wear this jersey. It’s such a great honour to be back within the colours under the new setup‚” said Masuku.
“Hopefully I will grab the opportunity with both hands‚ and look forward for greater things this season.
“It’s just another opportunity because as you know it’s only local players here. It’s a chance for us to show the coach what we are capable of and the whole of SA what we can offer in the Bafana setup.
“I just‚ I think I haven’t really being doing well. I have to admit to that. Since I’m willing to learn.”
Zambia coach Wedson Nyirenda:
“There is always the first time. Mozambique had never beaten us but they beat us at our home ground,” said Nyirenda.
“Even us we are going to South Africa with a positive mind. We want to get a good result.
“What is happening in their camp where their coach Stuart Baxter is complaining about clubs withdrawing players could be part of mind games. We are focused for the game, we are going there for a positive result.”
Key players fort South Africa:
Mario Booysen: The lanky defender will be wearing the skipper’s armband and will be crucial at the back to provide leadership.
Asavela Mbekile: The Mamelodi Sundowns versatile player can play at the back and in the midfield. His experience in the Caf Champions League will be valuable for the inexperienced squad as they want to topple the Zambians.
Key players for Zambia:
Justin Shonga: Shonga is one of the most dangerous players in front of goal. He will hope to bring his deadly form to South Africa and continue where he left off against Swaziland.
John Ching’andu: The Zesco United midfielder, Ching’andu brings his experience in the middle of the park. Coach Nyirenda will also bank on him to provide stability in the team against the hosts.