Mbokazi, Foster return to Bafana Bafana for Kenya qualifiers

Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has announced his 27-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya, with defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi and striker Lyle Foster returning to the team. Mbokazi, who plays for Major League Soccer, returns to the national setup for the first time since his impressive World Cup campaign in June. Foster, who recently moved to MLS side Houston Dynamo on loan from Burnley, also makes his way back into the squad.

The squad announcement sees the omission of experienced midfielder Themba Zwane, who has struggled to get minutes under his belt at club level. Zwane's place has been taken by Mamelodi Sundowns teammate Siyanda Ndlovu, who has had an encouraging start to the season. Mosimane had previously identified Zwane as one of the team's leaders, highlighting his experience and institutional knowledge as crucial in helping integrate younger players into the national setup.

Mosimane expressed his admiration for Zwane, stating that he had to phone the player to inform him of his omission. Zwane is a professional and a role model, and Mosimane emphasized that the team learns from him. The coach also highlighted Ndlovu's impressive form, stating that he has been man-of-the-match three or four times and that his performances cannot be ignored.

Mbokazi's return provides another defensive option for Bafana Bafana, who will be facing former Bafana striker Benni McCarthy, who will be heading the coaching dugout for Kenya. Mosimane stated that he needs to give Mbokazi an opportunity, having done exceptionally well in the World Cup. Foster also returns to the national setup for the first time under Mosimane and will look to make an impact in the qualifiers.

The squad announcement also sees the inclusion of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and Teboho Mokoena, despite ongoing fitness concerns. Mosimane expressed confidence in his medical team, stating that they will communicate with him regarding the players' fitness levels. The coach also highlighted the importance of having a strong support team, including fitness trainer Kabelo Rangoaga, who works closely with the analysts.

Bafana Bafana will host Kenya at the Orlando Amstel Arena on November 13 before traveling to Nairobi for the return fixture on November 17. The team will look to build on their recent form, having beaten Guinea 2-1 and dismantled Eritrea 5-0 in their previous qualifiers. Mosimane will be looking to secure a positive result against Kenya, who will be led by McCarthy.

The Bafana Bafana squad for the Kenya qualifiers includes goalkeepers Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, and Ricardo Goss, defenders Aubrey Modiba, Samukele Kabini, Fawaaz Basadien, and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, midfielders Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, and Sphephelo Sithole, and forwards Iqraam Rayners, Lyle Foster, and Cassius Mailula.

Key points

• Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Lyle Foster return to Bafana Bafana for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya.
• Themba Zwane omitted from the squad due to lack of playing time at club level.
• Siyanda Ndlovu included in the squad following an encouraging start to the season.