Sono - aiming to put the record straight (Allsport)

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African Nations Cup flops South Africa are aiming to put the record straight at the World Cup, according to coach Jomo Sono.

Bafana Bafana's status was dealt a blow following a shock 2-0 defeat to hosts Mali in the quarter-finals of the pan-African tournament

And the future did not look bright for Sono's side when they laboured to a 2-0 win over a below-strength Scotland side.

However, that was followed by a far more convincing performance against Turkey, when two Benni McCarthy goals secured victory.

"When we left home, most of the players had never played together and some had never even met each other," said Sono.

"Now they know each other."

FC Copenhagen forward Sibusiso Zuma should make the right midfield position his own after convincing against Turkey.

This should clear the way for George Koumantarakis to partner the in-form McCarthy in attack.

After having toyed with the idea of a 3-5-2 formation, Sono is expected to stick with 4-4-2 with Lucas Radebe and Pierre Issa in central defence.

Aaron Mokoena and Bradley Carnell will occupy the wide positions.

Sono added: "Our confidence and that of the country in the squad took a serious knock at the Nations Cup.

"But that has now changed. We now believe in ourselves."