Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has officially announced the preliminary squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The announcement comes as the nation gears up for another shot at continental glory, with hopes high for a strong performance in the qualifiers.

Key Players in the Bafana Bafana Squad

Several familiar names have made the list, with captain Ronwen Williams, Percy Tau, and Lyle Foster expected to spearhead the attack. In midfield, seasoned players like Themba Zwane and Patrick Maswanganyi are likely to provide stability, while defenders Kuliso Mudau and Thapelo Morena will be key to shoring up the backline.

New Additions and Surprises

Broos has also included some fresh faces, offering opportunities to rising stars who have impressed on the domestic front. Notably, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thalente Mbatha, and Luke Le Roux have been called up, indicating the coach’s desire to bring youthful energy to the squad.

Notable Exclusions

A talking point has been the omission of Njabulo Blom and Bongokuhle Hlongwane, both of whom have been performing well in Major League Soccer (MLS). Broos has expressed concerns about their limited playing time and the logistical challenges of including MLS-based players, particularly regarding travel and fatigue.

Hugo Broos’ Preliminary Squad: Looking Ahead

The squad will undergo further training and assessment before the final team is selected for the crucial qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan. These games are vital to Bafana Bafana’s campaign, as they strive to secure a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team will need to deliver top performances to overcome their rivals and ensure positive results.