As the much-anticipated World Cup approaches, South Africa’s national team, Bafana Bafana, has been written off by international media, particularly in South Korea, as the ‘whipping boys’ of Group A. However, a closer look at their opponents reveals a different story. With a strong squad and a bit of luck, Bafana Bafana can beat the odds and make it to the next round.
Fifa Rankings: What Do They Really Mean?
The Fifa rankings, which currently place South Africa at 68th, do not tell the whole story. According to Fifa, the rankings are based on a team’s performance over a four-year period, with more recent results carrying more weight. This means that a team’s current form may not be accurately reflected in the rankings.
For instance, South Korea, who are ranked 28th, have had a mixed run of results in recent months, with a 2-1 loss to Colombia and a 1-0 win over Uruguay. This inconsistency makes them a more beatable opponent than their ranking suggests.
Key Players to Watch
Bafana Bafana have a number of key players who can make a difference in the World Cup. These include:
- Percy Tau, who has been in excellent form for his club side, Brighton & Hove Albion
- Themba Zwane, who has been scoring consistently for his club side, Mamelodi Sundowns
- Ronwen Williams, who has been solid in goal for his club side, Mamelodi Sundowns
With these players in top form, Bafana Bafana have a good chance of beating their opponents and making it to the next round.
