KICK-OFF: Zaha benched for Bafana clash

Bafana Bafana face the Ivory Coast in their opening Group D fixture of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha benched for the Elephants’ opener.

Recent form:  South Africa: DDDDWDDDWD v Ivory Coast: LWWWDDWW

Bafana Bafana starting XI:

Ronwen Williams, Sfiso Hlanti, Buhle Mkhwanazi, Thulani Hlatshwayo (c), Thami Mkhize, Kamohelo Mokotjo, Dean Furman, Lebo Maboe, Themba Zwane, Percy Tau, Lebo Mothiba.

Ivory Coast starting XI: 

Gbohouo; Coulibaly, Kanon, Traore, Wonlo, Aurier (c), Die, Kessie, Gradel, Seri, Pepe, Kodijia.

For more LIVE blog posts follow Opera News news editor Given Sigauqwe on twitter @GSigauqwe