Johannesburg - South Africa captain Aaron Mokoena insists there is no dissent in the ranks ahead of the crucial Group A match against France on Tuesday.

There have been reports of favouritism in Carlos Alberto Parreira's squad as they prepare to face a team in apparent chaos.

But Portsmouth defender Mokoena said: "Some people are so disappointed there have not been any problems in the group.

"The atmosphere is the camp is incredible. I am certainly not aware of any rifts."

Bafana Bafana coach Parreira added: "We've never had any problems during the whole preparation."

Mokoena's role as captain has been called into question by the African National Congress Youth League, who say he should be stripped of the armband.

The ANCYL are unhappy with his performances in both the Mexico match, which ended in a draw and the defeat by Uruguay and want a change made.

Spokesperson Floyd Shivambu said: "We believe that the captain of Bafana Bafana, Aaron Mokoena, sometimes makes costly mistakes, which the team and the country cannot afford in a do-or-die soccer encounter.

"The coach and tactical team should honestly assess the captain's readiness for the match against France."

Parreira will make five changes to the side that lost to Uruguay, two of them enforced as Kagisho Dikgacoi and goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune are both suspended.

Even a win for Bafana Bafana would not be enough if Mexico and Uruguay play out a draw.

Parreira is convinced the top two teams will play fair and said: "I'm sure the players will not make a deal and say let's draw this game.

"Maybe one of the two teams do not want to play Argentina and, they will go for a win. So we will never know what's going on in their minds.

"The reality is that is it out of our hands but that will not affect our motivation for the game.

"The group is very tough. It would be a disappointment if we were to go out but I do not consider it as a failure.

"What I can promise the South African public is that we are going to give it our best shot. We have accept that this is the World Cup and whatever is thrown against you, you must adapt.

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