Pitso Mosimane has announced his first 30-man Bafana Bafana squad since returning as head coach, with South Africa preparing for two crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 qualifiers later this month.
Also see: Bafana Bafana veteran Ramahlwe Mphahlele hangs up his boots
According to IOL, Bafana will begin their qualifying campaign against Guinea at Orlando Stadium on 26 September 2026 before travelling to face Eritrea on 30 September 2026. Mosimane’s squad will also feature in a friendly against Egypt on 4 October 2026, giving the coach another opportunity to assess his players during the international window.
The squad includes a mixture of experienced internationals and emerging talent, with a few established names selected.
Mosimane has also handed a national team opportunity to Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma. The coach defended the selection of Mbuthuma, mentioning “the forward’s physical presence, hunger and ability to contribute despite concerns about his recent goalscoring record.”
𝗣𝗜𝗧𝗦𝗢 𝗢𝗡 𝗠𝗕𝗨𝗧𝗛𝗨𝗠𝗔 – 𝗛𝗘’𝗦 𝗛𝗨𝗡𝗚𝗥𝗬
“Well, I don’t know what other people are saying and I don’t know why people brand him as an enemy,” said Mosimane.
“I think he’s a national team player. He scores goals for Orlando Pirates. I think you’ve seen him… pic.twitter.com/EWqYOgQr5F
— iDiski Times (@iDiskiTimes) September 17, 2026
The 30-man Bafana Bafana squad
Goalkeepers:
Ricardo Goss, Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine
Defenders:
Aubrey Modiba, Fawaaz Basadien, Ime Okon, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Khulumani Ndamane, Lebone Seema, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Olwethu Makhanya, Samukele Kabini, Thabang Matuludi, Thapelo Morena
Midfielders:
Bathusi Aubaas, Brooklyn Poggenpoel, Lebohang Maboe, Sphephelo Sithole, Teboho Mokoena
Forwards:
Cassius Mailula, Iqraam Rayners, Luther Singh, Oswin Appollis, Puso Dithejane, Relebohile Mofokeng, Shandre Campbell, Tashreeq Matthews, Thapelo Maseko, Themba Zwane, Yanela Mbuthuma.
Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane announces his final squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Guinea & Eritrea 🇿🇦⚽️ #BafanaPride @StandardBankZA @adidasZA @HonorAfrica @SABC_Sport @REXONA_SA @NUTRITECHFIT @socios @10bet_ZA @CastleLagerSA @flysaa @southernsungrp pic.twitter.com/AQWlH6JI9b
— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) September 17, 2026
Also see: Bafana Bafana midfielder Luke le Roux heads to Belgium with Cercle Brugge
The selection also sees a strong representation from Mamelodi Sundowns, with 13 players reportedly included in the 30-man group.
Mosimane has indicated that Williams will remain Bafana’s senior captain, while Zwane and Chaine will also form part of a broader leadership group.
Coach Mosimane said he wants to give younger players opportunities to take on leadership responsibilities alongside the more experienced squad members.
The upcoming fixtures will therefore mark an important start to Mosimane’s second spell in charge of Bafana Bafana, with the team beginning its pursuit of qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Matchday is calling! 🇿🇦⚽️ Get ready to rally behind Bafana Bafana as they face off against Guinea in a massive clash. Secure your spot, bring your green and gold, and let’s make it a full house!
📍 Orlando Stadium, Soweto
📆 Sat 26 Sept 2026
🕑 Kick-off 15:00 (Gates open at… pic.twitter.com/lqJU1kAbwL— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) September 9, 2026
Also see: Bafana Bafana get home advantage for AFCON 2027 opener
Featured image: X/@BafanaBafana
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