A Timely Boost For Bafana In Morocco
As Bafana Bafana put the finishing touches on their Africa Cup of Nations preparations, there is welcome news coming out of camp. Oswin Appollis has been declared fully fit and available for selection ahead of South Africa’s tournament opener against Angola in Marrakech on Monday.
For a few anxious moments earlier this week, that was not a given. Appollis left the field limping after South Africa’s narrow 1–0 friendly win over Ghana at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto, sparking concern among supporters who have grown used to his energy and directness on the wing.
Those fears have now been firmly put to bed.
Medical Green Light Clears The Air
South African Football Association chief medical officer Dr Thulani Ngwenya confirmed that Appollis, along with the rest of the squad, has a clean bill of health.
Any minor knocks picked up during the Ghana fixture were treated, and Appollis has since been moving freely without discomfort. Hugo Broos’ initial assessment that the injury scare was “not so bad” has proven accurate, giving the coach full freedom when finalising his matchday plans.
In tournament football, that kind of certainty matters.
Why Appollis Matters To This Squad
At 24, Appollis arrives at AFCON 2025 at an important point in his career. Since completing his move from Polokwane City to Orlando Pirates in July, the Cape Town-born winger has stepped up seamlessly, helping ease the loss of Mohau Nkota following his departure to Al Ettifaq.
Long before the big move to Pirates, Appollis had already earned the trust of Hugo Broos at national level. His work rate, ability to carry the ball under pressure, and willingness to track back have made him a reliable option in a squad where competition for wide positions is fierce.
Even if he does not start against Angola, few would be surprised to see him called upon to change the tempo off the bench.
Eyes On A Demanding Group
South Africa’s AFCON journey begins against Angola before a Boxing Day showdown with Egypt in Agadir, followed by a return to Marrakech to face Zimbabwe on December 29.
With Appollis fit and available, Bafana head into that opening match with one less question mark and a little more belief that they are ready for what lies ahead.
Source: ESPN Africa
Featured Image Source: Uwais Saeed on X
For more football news and updates check out: soccermag
