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Key players that could decide Bafana v Ghana encounter

In fourth place and on one point, Bafana Bafana need cool heads to overcome Ghana in their final Africa Cup of Nations Group C clash today.

Ghana are on a high after registering a dramatic late victory over Algeria on Friday and believe they can progress to the knockout phase ahead of the South Africans.

Here are key players for today's crunch clash.

SOUTH AFRICA

Dean Furman

The skipper has to stamp his authority in the centre of the park to stop Ghana's powerful midfielders. Furman's tough- tackling game, defence- minded brain and strenuous work rate was instrumental in Bafana's qualifying campaign, but he's not quite found his rhythm in Equatorial Guinea.

He needs to dominate the midfield battle and should be encouraged to shoot more from range after his powerful shot rattled the crossbar against Algeria.

Bernard Parker

Bafana are desperate for a finisher and Parker has shown many times that he can be composed in front of goal, even when there is pressure. He came on as a substitute against Senegal, but was forced to play on the right wing and was quiet. He'd be better off in a more central position, either as a target man or as a creator just behind the striker. He also needs more time on the pitch to make a difference.

Mulomowandau Mathoho

Taking care of Ghana's Asamoah Gyan is not going to be easy, but if there is anyone who can do the job it's Mathoho. The Kaizer Chiefs defender may have been guilty of giving Senegal's Kara Mbodji too much room in the box to head home the equaliser on Friday, but he's proven to be Bafana's most reliable defender in the last few months.

GHANA

Christian Atsu

With his electric pace and quick feet, Atsu does much of his scheming out on the flanks. The Everton player, who is on loan from Chelsea, enjoys taking players on and uses his skills to cause confusion in the opposition half. He is a good crosser of the ball and will keep Bafana Bafana right-back Anele Ngcongca busy.

Asamoah Gyan

He's deadly, quick off the mark and he's captain fantastic.

Gyan cannot be given too much room to manoeuvre in the box or he'll take advantage, like he did when he scored a late winner against Algeria. The striker missed the opening game against Senegal and his return makes the Black Stars a lot more dangerous. He has always been someone they can rely on in crucial games.

Mubarak Wakaso

The Glasgow Celtic player has got a sweet left foot. He is one of the men in the Ghanaian team who take set-pieces. Wakaso is comfortable playing behind the striker or on the left wing.

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