Share

Parreira set to shuffle pack

Johannesburg - Carlos Alberto Parreira has admitted he will need to tweak his Bafana Bafana side when the World Cup kicks off on Friday.

Gallery: Bafana magic against Denmark

The Brazilian mentor was delighted to see his charges extend their unbeaten run to 12 games after a 1-0 victory over Denmark on Saturday.

And while he declared his team are mentally and physically ready for the global showpiece, Parreira revealed he needs to shuffle his pack in areas ahead of the clash with Mexico at Soccer City on June 11.

"I only dream about positive things," he said. "But this game [against Denmark] gave me a lot to think about and it is a good thing.

"The good thing is that we have options and I played with a few ideas against Denmark and those left me with a few things to think about.

"We have taken the right path throughout our preparations and only during the week will I make up my mind about who to go for against Mexico."

Parreira has decided to use Steven Pienaar in a central, supporting striker role, in order to accommodate Siphiwe Tshabalala on the left wing - the Everton star's preferred position.

But the country's premier playmaker has not been his creative self in the middle of the park, as he often gets drawn too deep and leaves Katlego Mphela isolated.

Parreira could be considering Pienaar's position, which means either Tshabalala or Teko Modise could give way.

Reneilwe Letsholonyane has established himself as Bafana's first-choice holding midfielder and Parreira must decide whether to partner him with Kagisho Dikgacoi or Thanduyise Khuboni.

Meanwhile, Bernard Parker and Surprise Moriri showed the coach that when called upon, they will be able to do a job for the country, which is exactly what Parreira wants: for his players to make the nation proud. 
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE