Former Bafana Bafana coach offers tactical fix for suspended Teboho Mokoena - 'We should consider positioning...'

As Hugo Broos grapples with the absence of the suspended Teboho Mokoena, legendary coach Augusto Palacios believes the answer lies in shifting the team's tactical shape rather than a like-for-like replacement.

With a crucial knockout spot on the line, the pressure is on the South African technical team to find a formula that can unlock a disciplined South Korean defence on Thursday.

Mokoena has been the heartbeat of the side throughout Broos’ tenure, but his unavailability leaves a significant void in the engine room.

Palacios has urged a more aggressive outlook, suggesting that the team's creative talents must be deployed in advanced roles to compensate for the loss of their midfield general.

"With the attacking style of play, opposition defenses will find it difficult to contain us.

"We should consider positioning Relebohile Mofokeng alongside the striker, in front of the two wingers, as this arrangement facilitates ground penetration,” Palacios told KickOff.

Despite the setback of Mokoena's suspension, Palacios remains optimistic following the spirit shown in the recent draw against Czechia.

The veteran mentor highlighted that Bafana Bafana found their rhythm once they committed more bodies forward in their previous outing.

"Our attacking performance was problematic for the Czech team, as they exhibited limited speed.

"The Czech team lacks pace. In the second half, we leveraged our strengths and increased our attacking efforts," Palacios stated.

While Mofokeng is tipped for a more advanced role, the vacuum left in the defensive midfield sector must also be addressed.

Palacios expects Sphephelo Sithole to step back into the starting lineup to provide the necessary cover.

"With Mokoena unavailable, Sithole is expected to return to the midfield," he noted.

"The upcoming match against South Korea is critical, as Mexico is anticipated to draw with Czech Republic, making the qualification process more competitive.

"The team's objective remains to execute their attacking game plan effectively."

With South Korea only needing a single point to confirm their qualification, Palacios warns that Bafana must be clinical and brave.

"A victory in the next match is essential, and confidence must be maintained, particularly given the improved performance observed in the second half of the previous game.

"The coach has the option to reinstate Sithole in the midfield, especially since South Korea requires only one point to secure qualification," concluded Palacios.