2010 FIFA World Cup: South African Squad Announced, Benni Left Out

Goalkeepers:
Itumeleng Khune, Moeneeb Josephs, Shu-Aib Walters

Defenders:
Siboniso Gaxa, Matthew Booth, Lucas Thwala, Aaron Mokoena (captain), Bongani Khumalo, Siyabonga Sangweni, Tsepo Masilela, Anele Ngcongca, Lucas Thwala

Midfielders:
Steven Pienaar, Teko Modise, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, Thanduyise Khuboni, Kagisho Dikgaco, Macbeth Sibaya, Surprise Moriri

Strikers:
Katlego Mphela, Bernard Parker, Siyabonga Nomvete

In a surprise announcement Brazilian coach Alberto Parreira named his 23-man squad which excludes the all-time top goal-scorer Benni McCarthy.

The former Blackburn Rovers striker was not given much game time since his arrivals from the UK, fitness could be the main reason for his exclusion, as complaints regarding overweight condition.

Another major talking point is in the goal-keeping area with Rowen Fernandez left out in place of Shu-Aib Walters.

For millions of South African fans the shock of a World Cup squad without Benni will cause many with doubts if we can beat Mexico in the opening match.

But many will remember that Bafana Bafana played the Confederations Cup without the England based player.

Parreira also said that he will look to have a balanced team out for every game and "counter attack" is the name of the game.