Glamour Boys, Itumeleng Khune and Bernard Parker started the game as Bafana Bafana lost to neighbours, Zambia by 1-0 at Soccer City Complex on Wednesday evening in the 17th edition of Nelson Mandela Challenge.

There was no repeat of the 1994 result when Doctor ’16-V’ Khumalo inspired Bafana Bafana sent Zambia packing in a match to honour ‘Madiba’.

Gordon Igesund who is also preparing for African Cup of Nations to be hosted in South Africa in 2013 had called up five players from Naturena with Reneilwe Letsholonyane also making an appearance in the 64th minute of the game. Letsholonyane proved with his deft touches that he is still a key member of the national team.

Bernard Parker who started upfront was replaced at halftime. There was no place in the team for Siboniso Gaxa who received a late call up to the squad. Industrial midfielder, Siphiwe Tshabalala watched the proceedings on the bench.

The Phiri born star later revealed to kaizerchiefs.com that he “did not play as a precautionary measure after suffering a knock in training the day before the game,”

Bafana Bafana who gave their all particularly in the second half lost through a goal from Collins Mbesuma. There was little fully stretched Khune could have done to save the rocket from the Zambian hitman.

Rated 19th in Africa, Bafana Bafana will open the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations at Soccer City Complex against Cape Verde on January 19.