SAFABafana Bafana take on Algeria in their Group C opener in the African Nations Championship at Mandela National Stadium on Friday.
Coach Molefi Ntseki took with him a squad mostly made up of free agents but with experienced players who are expected to inspire South Africa to continental glory.
GOAL predicts how Ntseki could pick his starting line up on Friday.
BackpagepixThe former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper has a case to present and prove he did not deserve to be offloaded by the Buccaneers.
BackpagepixCurrently a free agent, this is an opportunity for Jooste to impress some Premier Soccer League teams.
Richards BayMamelodi Sundowns are yet to make a conclusive decision on Mashego and the defender would want to use CHAN to influence coach Miguel Cardoso's thoughts on the matter.
He was on the rise last season and turned himself into a regular until Cardoso took over as Sundowns coach and this is a chance for Khoza to send a message to the Portuguese tactician.
BackpageAlso at home as a right-back, Mphahlele's experience is something Ntseki can bank on.
BackpageAfter struggling for game time at Pirates last season, Ndlondlo has a big point to prove.
BackpagepixThe left-footed linkman has spent most of his club career being loaned out by Sundowns and CHAN could present him as an international player who deserves to be Cardoso's regular player.
BackpagepixThe Sundowns star carries a huge responsibility on his shoulders as captain of this group, tasked to lead the team to glory.
BackpagepixThis would be a test for Kutumela to show that he still has the speed to take on defenders and cause havoc for opponents.
TS GalaxyDolly was surprisingly released by TS Galaxy and appears unsettled since leaving Kaizer Chiefs, but getting back to international football could revitalise him.
BackpageAfter spending the better part of last season on the sidelines injured, Lepasa might need to build some match fitness to deliver the goods for Ntseki.