As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers set to kick off in September, Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has seized the opportunity to experiment and evolve the national squad. With several senior players unavailable due to club commitments—particularly from Mamelodi Sundowns and overseas teams—Broos fielded a youthful, experimental line-up in recent international friendlies.
South Africa’s national team played to a goalless draw against Tanzania and followed it up with an impressive 2-0 victory over Mozambique. These fixtures allowed emerging players to stake their claim, and several fresh faces stood out, offering renewed hope for the future of the national side.
Breakthrough Performers
Among the brightest talents were Orlando Pirates youngsters Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota, both of whom have been making waves in the domestic league. Their performances hinted at their readiness to contribute on the international stage. But beyond them, three other players grabbed the spotlight with performances that could shape the composition of Bafana Bafana’s World Cup campaign.
At just 19, Mbekezeli Mbokazi has emerged as a top contender for a crucial defensive position that Broos has long identified as a weakness: left centre-back. Having risen swiftly through the Orlando Pirates ranks, Mbokazi earned his senior national team debut against Mozambique, where he partnered club teammate Nkosinathi Sibisi.
Despite his age, Mbokazi displayed remarkable composure and a mature reading of the game. His comfort with the ball at his feet and his effectiveness in aerial duels—despite not being the tallest defender—highlight his potential. His timing, tenacity, and set-piece threat mark him as a future mainstay in the Bafana Bafana backline.
Fawaaz Basadien – The Reliable Left-Back
Another standout performer was Fawaaz Basadien, who captained the side against Tanzania. Known for his leadership qualities and consistency at Stellenbosch FC, Basadien brings a mix of tactical discipline and attacking support.
In the 2024/25 season, Basadien tallied seven goals and eight assists in 46 matches—a remarkable return for a left-back. His debut for the national team saw him bring much-needed stability and composure to a position where South Africa has struggled with inconsistency. His overlapping runs and set-piece accuracy add a new dimension to the team’s attacking options.
After a series of health challenges disrupted his involvement with the national team, Luke le Roux, who plies his trade in Sweden, is now back and in form. The 25-year-old is renowned for his endurance, strength, and technical intelligence, all crucial attributes for a modern box-to-box midfielder.
Le Roux’s return adds depth to the midfield, where he excels at transitioning from defence to attack seamlessly. His aerial ability and positional awareness make him an asset in both penalty areas. With the qualifiers looming, his inclusion could offer balance and control in critical matches.
Looking Ahead
These friendly matches have not only given Broos a glimpse into the depth of South African football but also offered emerging players the platform to shine. With World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, the rise of talents like Mbokazi, Basadien, and Le Roux bodes well for Bafana Bafana’s ambitions on the global stage.
As Broos continues to refine his squad, fans can look forward to a team that blends youthful energy with growing international experience—an encouraging sign for South Africa’s quest to return to football’s biggest stage.
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