AFCON 2023: Pitso Mosimane Sends a Message to Bafana Bafana Ahead of Mali Clash

• South Africa's journey in the 2023 AFCON commences today, January 16, against Mali
• Bafana Bafana won their only AFCON title in 1996 and are underdogs this year
• Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Pitso Mosimane, has sent his best wishes to the team

Bafana Bafana's 2023 Africa Cup of Nations journey kicks off on Tuesday evening against Mali.

Former Mamelodi Sundowns boss Pitso Mosimane has sent a lovely message to Hugo Broos' team who are looking to make a positive start in the tournament.

Many South Africans expect a solid performance against a formidable West African team. Despite being considered underdogs, Broos' experience in the competition is likely to be beneficial.

Mosimane, who was part of the Bafana Bafana coaching set-up a few years ago, took to social media to send a heartfelt message to the team.

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"Good luck guys. Do the best of your abilities. You have the talent," he wrote on X.

South Africa reached the quarter-finals in the 2019 edition but suffered a painful defeat against Nigeria. Their current squad is missing arguably their best player, Burnley striker Lyle Foster, who could have played a huge role in Ivory Coast.

After facing Mali, they will play Namibia on Sunday, January 21, then play Tunisia on January 24.

Key Bafana Bafana players

Sports Brief earlier dissected South Africa's squad to find out who will be their most important player in Ivory Coast.

Top of the list is captain, and goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, who is one of the team's leaders. Right-back Khuliso Mudau is also expected to play a crucial role in both ends of the field.

Hugo Broos will also expect Al Ahly forward Percy Tau to create and score goals.

AFCON 2023 Group E Preview

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Sports Brief recently made a detailed analysis of AFCON 2023 Group E's four participants. This group is regarded as the 'group of death'.

Mali and 2004 champions Tunisia will be the favourites for the top two Round of 16 qualification spots.

South Africa will look to cause an upset while Namibia will want to leave their mark in the tournament.