SOUTH AFRICA

One of South Africa’s most essential players since Hugo Broos was appointed manager in May 2021. “Tebza” is as solid as they come in midfield, with pinpoint passing, long-range shots and relentless work rate. He is also a free-kick specialist. Like captain Ronwen Williams, he came up through the ranks at SuperSport United, before joining Sundowns. During qualification for the 2026 World Cup he was at the centre of a scandal which almost cost South Africa a place in the finals when he unwittingly played in a 2-0 win over Lesotho despite being suspended. Fifa handed Lesotho a 3-0 walkover, fined South Africa’s FA £9,300 and issued Mokoena with a warning. He spoke about it last year, telling Radio 2000 about the abuse he and his family had received: “I knew [it would happen] on social media, but when it happened twice at the mall, that’s when it hit me hard. When it happened face-to-face I knew I was going to regret it for the rest of my life … I didn’t even know that I had those yellow cards, so it was very difficult, and I was relieved when we qualified for the World Cup. I was not happy but relieved. It was a tough few months for me, and I was not myself at home … The coach said I shouldn’t blame myself and that we’re all involved and we should have all known.”

At his best, Appollis is a joy to watch. Fast, with a low centre of gravity and an eye for defence-splitting passes, he also brings useful versatility, able to play on either wing, or just behind the striker. At youth level he was developed by Cape Town Spurs’ famous Ikamva Academy, and represented SuperSport United as a youngster. But it was with South African top-flight club Polokwane City that he truly announced himself. He has been at Pirates since last year, and has become indispensable for both club and country. Which is quite some story, given that in 2022 he almost walked away from football, frustrated with how his career was progressing. It took the respected South African football coach Kwanele Kopo to convince him to lace up his boots again. Appollis said last year: “He is the one who saved my career. I was sitting at home and didn't want to play, but Kopo called me and never gave up on me. He then called my mother, and she convinced me to go back. To this day, we still communicate with one another, and I believe that if it weren't for him, I wouldn't be where I am today." Outside football, Appollis is an avid gamer. Favourite game: Call of Duty.

A key part of coach Hugo Broos’s plans coming into this tournament. The marauding right-back is an inspirational leader for club and country, and brings huge energy and versatility. When he is not making slick tackles in his own half, he is nutmegging opposition defenders, sailing up and down the right flank, earning his “Sailor” nickname. Broos initially doubted Mudau’s defensive qualities, but he now speaks highly of the full-back. “Now he is not only a right back who is offensively strong, he has learned a lot defensively,” Broos said. “Khuliso is the best right-back in this country, and one of the best right-backs in Africa.” He was awarded Outstanding Footballer of the Year at the Icons of Africa Awards this year, because “he embodies what it means to be a modern African footballer: resilient, hardworking, and committed to excellence both on and off the field. His journey from Limpopo to the top of South African football continues to inspire young athletes across the continent.”