Key Bafana v Mali match-ups

Durban - Key match-ups in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final between South Africa and Mali at Moses Mabhida Stadium Saturday:

Itumeleng Khune (RSA) v Mahamadou Samassa (MALI)

Italy-based Samassa got his first start against Democratic Republic of Congo and repaid the faith put in him with a clinical early equaliser. He will have to be even sharper, though, to beat outstanding shot-stopper Khune.

Dean Furman (RSA) v Seydou Keita (MALI)

At first glance this is an unequal contest with the left boot of former Barcelona midfielder Keita oozing class, but Furman from English third-tier outfit Oldham is a tireless warrior who usually makes his presence felt.

Katlego Mphela (RSA) v Adama Tamboura (MALI)

Injury-plagued striker Mphela is overdue a goal and that spells danger for Tamboura, voted one of the best defenders at the 2012 Cup of Nations and an ever-present in the group stage this year.