South Africa’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, is set to enter a new chapter of experimentation and youth development as coach Hugo Broos unveiled a 41-man provisional squad ahead of June’s international friendlies. The squad, announced this week, is notable for its heavy reliance on young players and Orlando Pirates stars. Signalling a clear intent from Broos to refresh the national team setup and build for the future.
The upcoming friendlies against Tanzania and Namibia will serve as a crucial litmus test for the next generation of South African talent. While exact dates for the matches are yet to be confirmed by the South African Football Association, the focus is unmistakably on blooding new faces and rewarding club form. Especially from the Orlando Pirates camp.
Three High-Profile Debutants and Some Familiar Faces
Three young players, Mohau Nkota, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Simphiwe Selepe, have received their first-ever call-ups to the senior national team. Nkota, a dynamic midfielder born in 2004, has already made a significant impact at Pirates. He scored crucial goals in both domestic and continental competitions. His brace against AmaZulu on his senior debut and match-winning performances in the CAF Champions League have earmarked him as one of the country’s most promising prospects.
Mbokazi, a 19-year-old centre-back, has quickly established himself in the Pirates’ first team. Following a stellar start, including a standout debut against Chippa United and strong showings in high-profile matches against Mamelodi Sundowns and MC Alger. His journey from rural KwaZulu-Natal to professional football is as inspiring as his performances have been assured.
Selepe, another midfielder, has also impressed with his energy and composure. He earned his spot in the national setup despite limited senior appearances for Pirates.
The squad also features a host of other Pirates players. Namely, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tshegifatso Mabasa, Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa, and goalkeeper Sipho Chaine. Their inclusion reflects both their club’s strong domestic season. But more importantly, Broos would rather on a core of players who are already familiar with each other.
A notable surprise is the selection of Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma. Surprisingly, he hasn’t featured in the starting lineup for Nasreddine Nabi and even missed the Nedbank Cup final. Despite his struggles for game time and mounting pressure from fans, Broos has kept faith in the shot-stopper. Highlighting the coach’s belief in his potential to bounce back.