Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole Back in Bafana Bafana Squad Ahead of Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

Bafana Bafana midfielder Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole has returned to the national team after a long injury layoff, expressing gratitude and excitement at being back in camp. The 26-year-old, who plays his club football in Portugal, missed several months following a serious injury that threatened his career.

Speaking through SAFA’s media department ahead of South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, Sithole reflected on the challenge of his recovery. “I would like to thank God for the opportunity that He has given me to play football again because that injury I got, I thought maybe it was the end of my career,” he said.

Sithole described the mental and emotional difficulty of being sidelined. “It was tough mentally because, you know, if you’re injured, you can’t do anything. You know that you can’t help the team with anything, but all you can do is support – support the guys and be with them. The only thing you can do is communicate with them through WhatsApp messages and everything, and I think that’s what I did. I was supporting them while I was away from home.”

Despite the setback, Sithole stayed connected with the squad and is now fully fit, ready to contribute in midfield. He praised the team’s spirit during his absence. “I am back with the team. So, it’s good to be back because I can see the team spirit is very good. The guys were doing well while I was away. I was always watching them play their games, and they were all doing okay. I am very proud to be back in the team again.”

Looking ahead to the qualifiers, Sithole stressed the importance of the upcoming match against Zimbabwe. “We all know that this game against Zimbabwe is a do-or-die game – we have to win it. If we really want to go to the World Cup, this game is a must-win for us. Everyone is prepared for that. Everyone knows it’s a do-or-die game. We have to win it, no matter what.”

Sithole also spoke about the bigger goal of ending South Africa’s long absence from the World Cup. “We also want to make the whole country proud because we haven’t qualified for the World Cup in the last 24 years. So now, I think it’s a big chance for us to make the country proud.”

Known for his physicality and composure in midfield, Sithole’s return is expected to strengthen Hugo Broos’ squad ahead of the decisive qualifiers. His presence adds experience and leadership as Bafana Bafana aim to secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

South Africa will face Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday at 18:00, with Sithole back in the fold for the crucial encounter.