Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has included Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Siyanda Ndlovu in his 27-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya. Mosimane made a winning return to the national team hot seat last month, guiding Bafana to victories over Guinea and Eritrea in their opening two qualifiers. The results have put South Africa at the top of the Group D standings.
Mbokazi returns to the squad after recovering from his injury troubles and has been playing regularly since his return. He is joined in defence by Ime Okon, Olwethu Makhanya and Lebone Seema, while Nkosinathi Sibisi misses out this time around. The squad also includes Puso Dithejane, who has continued to impress for his club, scoring the winning goal against Egypt.
One of the biggest talking points is the inclusion of Siyanda Ndlovu, who has enjoyed an impressive debut season with Mamelodi Sundowns. He has made 15 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing three assists. Ndlovu's form has earned him a spot in the squad as Bafana prepare for their next challenge.
Bafana also welcome back Thalente Mbatha and Lyle Foster, while several notable names have been left out. Nkosinathi Sibisi, Themba Zwane, Lebohang Maboe, Khulumani Ndamane and Shandre Campbell are among those not included. Mosimane has also kept the door open for players carrying knocks, with the final decision on their availability expected to be made by the medical team closer to the matches.
The next challenge for Mosimane comes in back-to-back Group D encounters against Kenya, who are coached by Bafana’s all-time leading goalscorer, Benni McCarthy. Bafana face Kenya next Friday at Orlando Stadium before travelling for the second encounter in Kenya on Tuesday. The matches will be crucial in determining the team's chances of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Bafana Bafana squad includes a mix of experienced and young players, with a focus on building on the team's recent successes. Goalkeepers Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, and Ricardo Goss have been included, as well as defenders Thabang Matuludi, Ime Okon, and Olwethu Makhanya. The midfield options include Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, and Sphephelo Sithole.
The final squad includes: Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss Defenders: Thabang Matuludi, Ime Okon, Olwethu Makhanya, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Aubrey Modiba, Samukele Kabini, Lebone Seema, Thapelo Morena, Fawaaz Basadien Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole, Brooklyn Poggenpoel, Bathusi Aubaas Forwards: Iqraam Rayners, Cassius Mailula, Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng, Luther Singh, Tashreeq Matthews, Puso Dithejane, Tshepang Moremi, Lyle Foster.
Key points
- Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has named a 27-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya.
