Climbing the ranks: Claudio Bravo may not have enjoyed success with his club but will captain his side with pride in South Africa

Bravo's career has suffered somewhat with the relegation of his club, Basque side Real Sociedad, to the Spanish second division.

After a loan spell at Recreativo Huelva, he returned last season revived, muscling out Asier Riesgo to become Sociedad's first choice in goal.

He has represented Chile at U-17, U-20, and U-23 levels, making his debut with the seniors on July 11, 2004 against Paraguay in the Copa America.

He retained his place for the 2006 World Cup qualifiers and was elevated suddenly to the captaincy of the national side after Marcelo Salas announced his international retirement.