AFCON preparation: Bafana Bafana held to goalless draw by Lesotho

The match, played behind closed doors, marked the end of the South African leg of their training ahead of the continental tournament.

The national squad, following a four-day camp in Stellenbosch, is set to depart for Ivory Coast on Thursday morning.

Despite being considered one of the underdogs in the competition, Bafana Bafana are gearing up for their opening match against Mali at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium in Korhogo on Tuesday, with kick-off scheduled for 10 pm SA time.

Subsequent group stage encounters include clashes against Namibia on January 21 and former champions Tunisia on January 24.

Coach Hugo Broos opted for a robust starting lineup in the preparatory match against Lesotho. The defensive setup featured Veli Mothwa in goal, supported by a central pairing of Siyanda Xulu and Nkosinathi Sibisi.

Aubrey Modiba and Khuliso Mudau took on the fullback roles. In the midfield, Broos deployed Teboho Mokoena and Sphephelo Sithole in the deep-lying positions, with Percy Tau operating as a false No 9.

The wings were manned by Mihlali Mayambela and Thapelo Maseko, while Evidence Makgopa assumed the lone striker position.

Notably, Mothobi Mvala, facing uncertainty due to a serious injury, was absent from the match.

Ronwen Williams and Themba Zwane remained unused substitutions, as Broos implemented significant changes in the second half to provide valuable playing time to nearly all squad members.

Read More: Hugo Broos on Lesotho friendly: “It wasn’t good, it wasn’t bad” | soccer (sabcsport.com)