Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha has been singled out to occupy a key midfield role for South Africa as Bafana Bafana prepare for a do-or-die World Cup group game against South Korea in Monterrey on Wednesday. South Africa enter the match with one point from two games and require a win to keep their progression hopes alive.
Coach Hugo Broos will be without regular midfield conductor Teboho Mokoena after the Mamelodi Sundowns playmaker picked up yellow cards in each of South Africa’s opening matches and is suspended. Mbatha, who came on as a second-half substitute in the 2-0 loss to Mexico and then started in the draw with Czechia, is one possible replacement in the centre of the park.
Youngster Relebohile Mofokeng praised Mbatha’s profile and contribution, saying he is a different type of midfielder who can play box-to-box, drive the ball and defend, and that his presence helps attackers find space and link passes, according to ESPN.
The 26-year-old made his international debut in September 2024 against Uganda and has since built a reputation as a dependable, consistent and versatile option for the national side. His 2024 move to Orlando Pirates has coincided with the club’s resurgence at domestic level, a subplot to his growing prominence for Bafana.
Mokoena also expressed confidence that others can cover the suspended player’s role, naming Mbatha and Jayden Adams among options and stressing the team approach, according to ESPN. Adams has been one of South Africa’s brighter performers in the tournament, showing authority on the ball before being substituted early in both matches.
South Africa have never reached the World Cup knockout stage in three previous attempts. South Korea, already on three points, need to avoid defeat to secure a Last 32 place, while Mexico have already clinched top spot in Group A and will face Czechia at the Estadio Azteca. Captain Ronwen Williams highlighted the squad’s mentality and brotherhood as a foundation for coping with pressure, according to ESPN.
