Bafana Bafana take on reigning World Champions France in a friendly match that is expected to bring fireworks. In light of this, we take a look at four key duels which could go a long way in deciding the clash.
Bafana Bafana are on the back of a toothless display against Guinea, where for large parts of the match, they were dominant but failed to convert any chances as the match ended in a goalless stalemate. France, on the other hand, managed to get the better of Ivory Coast as they beat the Elephants 2-1 in their last outing.
Ahead of the match at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, here are four key duels that could prove decisive when the two sides meet this evening.
Ronwen Williams vs Olivier Giroud
In the absence of Karim Benzema, AC Milan striker Giroud has been selected as the main man in the Les Blues attack and managed to find the back of the net in France's last match. He will undoubtedly pose a threat to the Bafana defence with his aerial prowess, although Bafana skipper Ronwen Williams, who is expected to make a return to the team after sitting out the clash against Guinea, can hold his own in the air. The 30-year-old is a shot-stopper of note and will be key to keeping the experienced striker and his teammates out on Tuesday.
Kylian Mbappe vs Siyanda Xulu
French coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed that the Paris Saint-Germain forward will be available for the clash against Bafana after being an unused sub against Ivory Coast. As one of the best attackers in world football, Mbappe will be looking to use his pace and trickery to get the better of Siyanda Xulu in the heart of the Bafana Bafana defence.
Xulu is unlikely to be overawed by the threat posed by the speedy Frenchman though. The 29-year-old is off the back of a bright season in Israel where he was a mainstay for his former club Hapoel Tel Aviv.
Keagan Dolly vs Jules Kounde
One of the key battles to look out for is the one between Kaizer Chiefs star Keagan Dolly and Sevilla defender Jules Kounde. The rejuvenated Dolly is in familiar territory, having spent four years playing in France with Montpellier and will be looking to leave a mark on the highly-rated French defender who has been linked with a move to some of Europe's biggest clubs in recent times.
Paul Pogba Vs Mothobi Mvala
As is the case with big games, it is likely to be decided in the middle of the park, where Pogba and Mvala will be key for their respective teams.
Mvala, with his robust style, has come into his own at Mamelodi Sundowns this season and will be looking to break down the French attack, while Pogba will try to initiate French attacks from the middle of the park.
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