Bafana Bafana Coach Hugo Broos Names Final Squad for World Cup Qualifiers
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has announced his final 23-man squad ahead of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria in early September. The squad comes after a preliminary list and several injury concerns, notably Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane, who is expected to be out for about two months, and Nkosinathi Sibisi.
The squad sees some new inclusions, including Orlando Pirates winger Kamogelo Sebelebele and Kaizer Chiefs attacker Mduduzi Shabalala. Sebelebele has impressed since joining Pirates from TS Galaxy and could play a key role on the right flank for South Africa. Shabalala, who featured in the Cosafa Cup squad earlier this year, has made a strong start to the season and now has an opportunity to cement his place in the main team ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Broos has omitted several Sundowns players, including Khuliso Mudau, Thapelo Morena, Jayden Adams, and Fawaaz Basadien, reflecting both injury issues and tactical decisions.
Bafana Bafana currently top Group C in the World Cup qualifiers with 13 points from six matches, including four wins and two draws. The squad selected reflects a mix of experience and emerging talent aimed at maintaining their strong position in the group.
The final 23-man squad is as follows:
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss
Defenders: Nyiko Mobbie, Zuko Mdunyelwa, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Khulumani Ndamane, Samukelo Kabini, Siyabonga Ngezana, Aubrey Modiba, Ime Okon
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Luke le Roux, Bathusi Aubaas
Forwards: Lyle Foster, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi, Iqraam Rayners, Mduduzi Shabalala, Mohau Nkota, Relebohile Mofokeng
Broos’ selections indicate a focus on tactical flexibility, youth integration, and attacking depth, as South Africa aims to secure crucial points in the group and maintain momentum toward World Cup qualification.
