It's Bafana Bafana against the Egyptian kids in the 2024 CHAN qualifiers! Will former Kaizer Chiefs coach Molefi Ntseki cook?

While Bafana’s squad is predominantly made up of fringe PSL players, it’s important to note that they represent the top tier of South African football. This stands in stark contrast to Egypt, who will field a team of their junior players. South Africa has taken bold steps by calling up players like Saleng, whose recent struggles have been well-documented, and Mamelodi Sundowns' Neo Maema. This signals their strong intent to qualify, as they bring in some of the country's brightest yet controversial talents.

One player with everything to prove is Sammy Seabi. The talented midfielder is currently unattached after parting ways with Mamelodi Sundowns. Having failed to secure a permanent spot in the Sundowns lineup, Seabi is now looking for his next opportunity. This qualifier offers him the perfect stage to showcase his skills and potentially catch the eye of PSL coaches and scouts eager to see how he performs in this high-stakes scenario. Similarly, former Sundowns teammate Terrence Mashego, who has also fallen out of favour at the club, will be hoping to make an impact and perhaps secure a contract elsewhere.

It has been over two months since Monnapule Saleng last graced the pitch, and much has been speculated about his absence. The troubled Pirates star has reportedly been sidelined due to issues surrounding failed transfer deals and contractual disputes. Now, he has a golden opportunity to silence the critics and remind everyone of his undeniable talent. This match could also serve as a critical moment for Saleng to mend ties with the Buccaneers or press them to meet his reportedly lofty demands. The pressure is on — this is his chance to shine.

GROUP A: Kenya, Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, Zambia

GROUP B: Tanzania, Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic

GROUP C: Uganda, Niger, Guinea, Qualifier 1, Qualifier 2

GROUP D: Senegal, Congo, Sudan, Nigeria

After Sunday's home leg, South Africa will travel to Egypt for the return match on March 9. Ntseki’s men will need to do more than just half the job at home if they are to advance.

While Egypt’s junior side may seem like a less daunting opponent, Bafana must be wary of the hostile atmosphere they will face when they travel to the land of the Pharaohs.

Ntseki and his squad must take full advantage of their home fixture and secure a strong result to avoid unnecessary pressure in the second leg. Should they succeed in overcoming Egypt, Bafana will face either Comoros or Malawi in the next stage, keeping their hopes of qualification alive.

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