Hugo Broos has once again found himself at the centre of selection controversy after announcing a Bafana Bafana squad with no room for Kaizer Chiefs players. The Belgian tactician unveiled his final 23-man list for the upcoming international friendlies against Tanzania and Mozambique, and despite Chiefs’ recent Nedbank Cup triumph, none of their stars made the final cut.
The omission comes after a season in which Amakhosi finally broke their trophy drought, lifting their first title in a decade. Yet, even this success hasn’t swayed Broos, who continues to favour players from sides showing more consistent league form.
Bafana Bafana Preliminary Picks Dropped
While Chiefs trio Bruce Bvuma, Yusuf Maart and Mduduzi Shabalala were part of the larger preliminary squad of 41, they failed to survive the final trimming. This selective approach by Broos has become something of a pattern, with the coach often opting against selecting players from the country’s most commercially visible club, instead focusing on tactical suitability and recent form.
Speaking from Polokwane, Broos dismissed suggestions that his decisions were influenced by club affiliations. “It’s not about where a player comes from,” he said. “I don’t care if he’s from Chiefs, Pirates or Chippa. If someone isn’t in the squad, it’s because there are others ahead of him in that position.”
Mamelodi Sundowns Omission Not a Snub
In a move that also raised eyebrows, no Mamelodi Sundowns players feature in the latest squad either. However, Broos explained that this was due to the club’s involvement in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, which kicks off on 15 June. The decision to exclude Sundowns players was made in consultation with the club to allow them uninterrupted preparation.
Orlando Pirates Take Centre Stage
This time, Orlando Pirates dominate the national team, contributing nine players to the final squad. Stellenbosch FC is also well represented with three names, while players from SuperSport United and Polokwane City are included. Only two overseas-based players were selected—Luke le Roux and Samukelo Kabini—highlighting Broos’ current preference for locally-based options.
With crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 AFCON campaign ahead, Broos appears to be using the upcoming friendlies to test new faces and build depth in his squad. “These games are an opportunity to try things,” he added. “It’s about finding the right balance, not making popular choices.”
Kaizer Chiefs Snub Stir Media and Supporter Reactions
Broos also used the squad announcement to take aim at what he perceives as bias in the media and among fans. “Some journalists are supporters,” he said bluntly. “When I don’t select a player from their team, they think I’m targeting that club. That’s not true—it’s purely about building the best possible national side.”
His comments reflect growing frustration with the constant scrutiny around his selections. The Belgian believes that too much emphasis is placed on where players come from, rather than whether they are truly fit for international duty.
Sibisi Steps Up as Captain
With Ronwen Williams unavailable, defender Nkosinathi Sibisi will captain the side in the upcoming matches. Broos praised the Orlando Pirates man’s leadership and experience. “He’s been part of this project since the beginning,” said Broos. “The players respect him, and he understands our direction as a team.”
Bafana Set for Action in Polokwane
Bafana Bafana will face Tanzania on Friday, 6 June, before locking horns with Mozambique on Tuesday, 10 June. Both matches will be held at the Peter Mokaba Stadium. As always, Broos’ decisions are bound to fuel debate, but the coach remains committed to his vision—even when it means making unpopular calls.
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