Benedict Vilakazi Questions Lorch and Grobler’s Exclusion From Bafana’s AFCON Plans

South Africa released a 54 man preliminary squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The squad will later drop to 23 players. The announcement sparked debate across the local football community. Former Bafana Bafana midfielder Benedict Vilakazi raised concerns about two missing names. He questioned the absence of Thembinkosi Lorch and Bradley Grobler. Both players are in strong form.

Vilakazi said the squad has quality. He also noted that the coach already knows most of his final group. He argued that the exclusion of Lorch and Grobler does not make sense. You can see his concern when you look at current performances. Lorch has been consistent. Grobler has been effective in front of goal. Both players bring skills that Bafana may need in Morocco.

Vilakazi challenged the idea of age as a factor. He said Lorch is younger than several players selected. He asked why age is used for some players and ignored for others. He said performance should matter more than age. He pointed to Lorch’s display at the FIFA Club World Cup. Lorch competed against elite players. Vilakazi questioned how that level of performance can be dismissed. He said the selection criteria appear unclear.

He added that the team needs a balance of youth and experience. He said some players seem guaranteed a place regardless of form. He warned that tournaments require composure. Experienced players help younger players manage pressure.

Vilakazi highlighted Grobler’s value in the box. Grobler scores goals. He wins aerial duels. He holds his position well. He has been one of the top scorers in the PSL era. Vilakazi said Bafana might struggle against tall defenders without a striker like him. He believes Grobler offers an option that other forwards cannot match.

Vilakazi used examples from global football. Argentina and Portugal took Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to major tournaments late in their careers. He asked why South Africa avoids using older but effective players. He said the team must vary its approach. He argued that tournament football requires a full range of skills.

The debate about selection will continue as the final 23 man squad approaches. Many fans share Vilakazi’s concerns. They want a selection process driven by form and fit. They want a squad that covers all scenarios. Vilakazi’s comments show the urgency of addressing these questions. South Africa needs clarity as the AFCON tournament draws closer.