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Igesund still testing waters

Johannesburg - Bafana Bafana coach Gordon Igesund says he will be using the upcoming friendly against Malawi to have "a final look" at some of his fringe players ahead of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

According to football411.com website, the 56-year-old was quick to set up some testing encounters for the squad following his appointment in July, including matches against international powerhouses Brazil and Poland, as well as against African opposition in the form of Mozambique, Kenya and defending AFCON champions Zambia.

Having fielded experimental teams in those encounters, Bafana did well against the Samba Kings and the Poles, as well as the Copper Bullets, despite losing those games 1-0, but they also looked impressive in the wins over Mozambique and Kenya, while they managed a 1-1 draw against Sweden.

Next up for The Boys are neighbours Malawi, and after naming his 24-man squad to face the Flames, Igesund said he is keen to test out some more formations before the finals kick-off in South Africa in January.

"I have been using the past five matches to look at various players and this one against Malawi is no different," Igesund, who will announce his 2013 AFCON squad on December 30, said on Tuesday.

"The only difference is that this is the last chance for me and my technical team to have a final look at what we have at our disposal.

"Time for observing and assessing the players is almost over, and I believe this match will give us an indication of where we are and where we are going."

Bafana Bafana squad:

Goalkeepers: Itumeleng Khune, Wayne Sandilands, Senzo Meyiwa.

Defenders: Siyabonga Sangweni, Bevan Fransman, Thabo Nthethe, Thabo Matlaba, Siyanda Xulu, Tsepo Masilela, Siboniso Gaxa.

Midfielders: Reneilwe Letsholonyane, Lerato Chabangu, Oupa Manyisa, Thuso Phala, Sifiso Myeni, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Delron Buckley, Ayanda Patosi, May Mahlangu, Thanduyise Khuboni, Dane Klate.

Strikers: Bernard Parker, Lehlohonolo Majoro, Tokelo Rantie.

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