Bafana Bafana and Zambia set for key AFCON warm-up duels

Bafana Bafana are at their peak at the moment, and they can't afford to lose their momentum by underestimating their opponents - let alone Cosafa neighbours Zambia.

Bafana will host Chipolopolo in an AFCON preparation match at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday afternoon (3pm, kick-off) as favourites, having been on a high due to a 24-match unbeaten run.

But be that as it may, Chipolopolo have vowed that they’ll give the hosts a run for their money, as they are also determined to prepare well for the continental showpiece under new coach Moses Sichone and his technical team.

So, given all the factors at play, we look at three duels that could decide the outcome of the match in the Windy City.

Ronwen Williams (Bafana) v Toaster Ntsabata (Chipolopolo)

Williams is the reigning No. 1 on the continent - a title that he’ll be eager to defend during the AFCON finals in Morocco next month.

But before that, he has to defend his honour against familiar faces. His goalkeeper coach at club level, Kennedy Mweene, carries out the same duties for Chipolopolo, coaching Williams’ club-level counterpart Ntsabata.

Williams is head and shoulders above his Sekhukhune United rival. He’s effective in one-on-one duels, has sharp reflexes, and possesses excellent penalty-saving abilities. But given that Mweene is in the mix, Ntsabata will be eager to outshine Williams.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Bafana) v Patson Daka (Chipolopolo)

Mbokazi has come of age. He has continued to stamp his authority in the national team after impressive performances at club level for Orlando Pirates.

The 19-year-old is clean as a whistle with his tackles, and he’s composed on the ball. He has also shown a great ability to take shots from distance, including scoring a screamer for Pirates.

His abilities will be put to the test when he comes up against Daka. The Leicester City striker is pacy and has tricky feet, often gliding past his markers with ease.

Khuliso Mudau (Bafana) v Fashion Sakala (Chipolopolo)

Mudau is the best right back in the country. He can pace up and down the right wing with ease.

However, it’s his quick backtracking abilities and timeless tackles that make him stand out. That’s why Bafana coach Hugo Broos had to intervene when he was involved in a contract dispute with Sundowns as he knew the importance of Mudau’s qualities for Bafana.

Mudau is expected to keep someone like Sakala at bay on Saturday. The Saudi Arabia–based attacker is quick on and off the ball, and can easily get past his opponent if he catches them sleeping.