Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has unveiled a 22-man squad to face Zambia in an international friendly set for 15 November in Gqeberha, marking South Africa’s final tune-up before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off next month.
A Familiar Core Ahead of AFCON
Broos has opted for stability, keeping faith in the core group that has steered Bafana through the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Despite the game’s friendly status, several key overseas-based players have been recalled to maintain continuity and cohesion heading into Morocco 2025.
The Belgian mentor emphasized that this is no time for experiments. “We are preparing for AFCON; it’s not the moment to call up too many new players,” Broos explained. “Changing things before a big tournament like AFCON is not a good idea.”
That means most of the regulars retain their spots, including skipper Ronwen Williams, Mamelodi Sundowns’ midfield dynamo Teboho Mokoena, and Burnley striker Lyle Foster, who continues to be one of South Africa’s brightest hopes abroad.
Fresh Faces and Familiar Partnerships
Sekhukhune United’s Keletso Makgalwa is the standout new face in the 22-man squad, earning his call-up after a string of impressive PSL performances. Meanwhile, key defensive partnerships like Khuliso Mudau and Aubrey Modiba (both from Sundowns) remain intact, anchoring a backline that has been among the team’s strongest assets this year.
Broos has also kept faith in his Europe-based contingent, including Samukelo Kabini of FK Molde (Norway) and Sphephele Sithole of CD Thondela (Portugal), underlining his intent to blend local consistency with international experience.
A Return to the Friendly City
The clash at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is expected to draw a strong Eastern Cape crowd, with local football fans eager to see Bafana in action on home soil before the team jets off for Morocco. The friendly also rekindles a historic rivalry between South Africa and Zambia, two nations with deep footballing ties and shared regional pride.
Fan Reaction
Fans on social media, applauded Broos for maintaining squad consistency, while others called for more opportunities for young PSL talents. “Good to see Broos keeping the team together — AFCON is not the time for experiments.” Another added, “Happy to see Makgalwa finally getting his chance!” were just some of the comments shared on various social media platforms.
The friendly is more than just a warm-up; it’s a statement of intent. With less than two months to go before AFCON, every minute on the pitch in Gqeberha could be crucial for final squad selection and tactical refinement.
Full Bafana Bafana Squad to Face Zambia:
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele FC), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)
Defenders: Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thabo Moloisane (Stellenbosch FC), Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Orlando Pirates), Khulumani Ndamane (TS Galaxy), Samukelo Kabini (FK Molde, Norway)
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas (Mamelodi Sundowns), Masindi Nemtajela, Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Sphephele Sithole (CD Thondela, Portugal)
Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Sipho Mbule, Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates), Keletso Makgalwa (Sekhukhune United), Mohau Nkota (Al-Etiffaq, Saudi Arabia), Lyle Foster (Burnley FC, England)
Source: SABC Sport
Image Source: Soccer Laduma on X
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