Defender Siyabonga Ngezana will be crucial in keeping it need and tidy in defence for Bafana Bafana.
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As Bafana Bafana prepare for a crucial encounter on the road to the 2026 Fifa World Cup, all eyes will be on the key players expected to lead their teams to victory when they face Benin in Ivory Coast Today (Tuesday).
Benin must not be underestimated, as their squad includes several experienced players familiar with the high stakes of international football. The key match-ups will undoubtedly highlight the tactical battle between the two sides, particularly in midfield, where both teams are expected to contest possession fiercely.
The Beninese striker, Steve Mounié, is Benin’s most valuable player, thanks to his goal-scoring ability and commanding presence on the field. With experience in the English and French leagues, he is a physically imposing forward who uses his height to his advantage, excelling in aerial duels and holding up the ball while drawing in opposition defenders.
Siyabonga Ngezana, known for his strong defensive capabilities in the centre-back position, is well-equipped to man-mark Mounié. Having thrived in Romania and now playing in France, Ngezana ranks among South Africa’s best defenders in Europe. His ability to read the game well allows him to intercept attacks effectively. Crucially, he is the ideal counter to Mounié’s aerial threat.
The well-travelled Jodel Dossou has played in Austria, France, Tunisia and Switzerland, and currently plays in Luxembourg. This versatile midfielder can operate as an attacking midfielder or, when needed, as a winger on either flank.
His ability to cut inside and switch the line of attack makes him a significant threat. Dossou thrives in a short inter-passing game, and if given too much space, he can embark on dangerous dribbles. He also contributes defensively when required.
Bafana Bafana defender Nkosinathi Sibisi is a strong candidate to keep Dossou in check. Sibisi’s fighting spirit is his biggest asset, and he is likely to shadow Dossou from the opening whistle.
Known for his tough tackling, Sibisi will be up for aerial duels along the fringes of Bafana Bafana’s penalty area. Domestically, he has earned a reputation as a fearless and tenacious defender.
Lyle Foster of Bafana Bafana.
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The lanky France-born central defender Yohan Roche is the anchor in Benin’s defence. Currently playing in Romania after a spell in France, he has built a reputation as a reliable defender known for his tactical awareness and aerial ability. His experience and leadership have strengthened Benin’s defensive structure, making him the ideal opponent for Bafana Bafana’s lethal striker, Lyle Foster.
While Beninese players generally have a physical edge over Bafana Bafana’s smaller players, Foster is an exception. As a striker, he is a clinical goal poacher with a knack for positioning himself perfectly in the box. He demonstrates composure in tight spaces, effectively holding off defenders, and possesses a sharp positional sense, making him a constant threat in front of goal.
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