Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has announced the final 23-man squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 Qualifiers. South Africa will face Uganda on November 15 and South Sudan on November 19 in two crucial matches that could solidify their path to the continental tournament.
Bafana’s Final Squad: Surprise Inclusion and Key Changes
One of the more unexpected inclusions is Stellenbosch FC goalkeeper Sage Stephens. With Sipho Chaine and Ronwen Williams, Stephens completes the trio tasked with defending the goal. Stephens’ call-up adds depth to the squad’s goalkeeping options, while Williams, regarded as South Africa’s premier goalkeeper, remains the team’s anchor between the posts.
The absence of Mamelodi Sundowns striker Themba Zwane stands out, as Zwane is out due to a domestic injury. Replacing him is Mihlali Mayambela of Aris Limassol, who will join the forward line alongside Orlando Pirates’ promising youngster Relebohile Mofokeng and Mamelodi Sundowns’ versatile Thapelo Morena.
Recent Form and the Path Ahead
Bafana Bafana comes off a strong showing in October, where they secured a 5-0 victory at home and a 1-1 draw away against Congo in their Group Stage fixtures. These results have set a promising stage for the team as they aim to achieve maximum points against Uganda and South Sudan.
Coach Hugo Broos has emphasized the importance of these fixtures, with Bafana Bafana under pressure to secure their place in the upcoming 2025 AFCON tournament. With talent spread across both local and international players, the squad appears poised for success.
Bafana’s Final Squad: Full Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers
- Ronwen Williams
- Sage Stephens
- Sipho Chaine
Defenders
- Sydney Mobbie
- Mothobi Mvala
- Nkosinathi Sibisi
- Aubrey Modiba
- Khuliso Mudau
- Fawaaz Basadien
- Siyabonga Ngezana
Midfielders
- Tebogo Mokoena
- Bathusi Aubaas
- Luke Le Roux
- Thalente Mbatha
Forwards
- Mihlali Mayambela
- Oswin Appollis
- Patrick Maswanganyi
- Evidence Makgopa
- Iqraam Rayners
- Elias Mokwana
- Thapelo Morena
- Relebohile Mofokeng
Key Players to Watch
- Ronwen Williams: As South Africa’s most experienced goalkeeper, Williams’ shot-stopping abilities and leadership will be critical in the two qualifying matches.
- Mihlali Mayambela: With Zwane out, Mayambela has a unique opportunity to make an impact on the international stage, bringing creativity and pace to the forward line.
- Tebogo Mokoena: The versatile midfielder has been consistent for the national team and will be key in controlling the midfield against Uganda and South Sudan.
Conclusion
As Bafana Bafana gears up for these decisive qualifiers, fans across the nation eagerly await the team’s performance. With a mix of seasoned internationals and fresh talent, Hugo Broos’ squad aims to secure victories and stamp their ticket to AFCON 2025.
Related article: Bafana Bafana 2024/25 AFCON Qualifiers Fixtures and What to Expect