The South African national football team, Bafana Bafana, under the stewardship of coach Hugo Broos, has announced a 41-member preliminary squad for the upcoming international friendly matches scheduled for June 2025. This announcement signals the first step in South Africa’s preparations for the final stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The team is set to face Tanzania on June 6, 2025, at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. The identity of the second friendly opponent is yet to be confirmed. The squad will convene for camp on June 1 in Johannesburg before traveling to Polokwane for the matches.
Notable Omissions and Squad Composition
One significant absence from the squad is any player from Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa’s dominant club side, due to their involvement in the FIFA Club World Cup from June 14 to July 13, 2025. This unavailability opens opportunities for players from other clubs to stake their claim.
Orlando Pirates have a commanding presence in the squad, contributing 11 players, underscoring their importance in the national team framework. Kaizer Chiefs also feature prominently, with several key players included.
Bafana Bafana Squad Breakdown
- Goalkeepers: Darren Johnson (Chippa United), Bruce Bvuma (Kaizer Chiefs), Ricardo Goss (SuperSport United), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates), Renaldo Leaner (Sekhukhune United).
- Defenders: Khulumani Ndamane (TS Galaxy), Nyiko Mobbie (SuperSport United), Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Orlando Pirates), Siyabonga Ngezana (FCSB), among others.
- Midfielders: Yusuf Maart (Kaizer Chiefs), Simphiwe Selepe (Orlando Pirates), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Mduduzi Shabalala (Kaizer Chiefs), Shandre Campbell (Club Brugge KV), and others.
- Forwards: Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates), Tshegofatso Mabasa (Orlando Pirates), Yanela Mbuthuma (Richards Bay FC), Devin Titus (Stellenbosch FC), Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Minnesota United FC).
Strategic Outlook
Coach Broos has emphasized the importance of these friendlies as opportunities to integrate emerging talents into the squad while maintaining a core of experienced players. This blend of youth and maturity is designed to build a competitive and cohesive team ready for the rigors of World Cup qualification and continental competition.
Bafana Bafana’s preliminary squad of 41 will be narrowed down to a final roster of 23 players as the friendlies approach, ensuring the team is battle-ready and strategically balanced.
Looking Ahead
South Africa’s campaign in the next stages of the World Cup qualifiers and the AFCON will rely heavily on the performances and cohesion developed during these international friendlies. The strong representation from Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs reflects the current strength and depth of South African football domestically.
Check also: Mamelodi Sundowns’ Road to the CAF Champions League Final
