Mamelodi Sundowns’ Iqraam Rayners and Themba Zwane were the biggest names omitted as Hugo Broos named his Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations on Monday.
While Rayners annd Mshishi misse out, Broos has included youngsters Tylon Smith – named the Best Player at the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year – and Shandre Campbell, who has been turning heads in Belgium.
Another notable omission is forward Bongokuhle Hlongwane, who last featured for the national team ahead of the previous Afcon in Ivory Coast.
Rayners, Mduduzi Shabalala and Thabo Moloisane have been named on the standby list, with Broos confirming they will remain on alert should injuries or withdrawals affect the final 23. Their inclusion on standby reflects the depth available to the national team, even as Broos opted for continuity in his main squad.
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Despite struggling with form and injuries in recent months, Relebohile Mofokeng has retained his place in the squad. Broos defended the decision, saying the Pirates forward remains a player he trusts. “You know I like Relebohile as a player. He’s a very good, talented player. He’s had a few problems with injuries, but I’m very happy to see him playing again with Pirates. I didn’t doubt for one second to take him,” he said.
There were no major surprises otherwise, as Broos kept faith with the core group who have served the national team well over the past year.
“We have 23 players I will count on for experience. Smith and Campbell are there for exposure. This is a great opportunity for them to be there,” said the Belgian.
Broos believes this year’s squad is in a far better place thanks to the lessons learned at the last Africa Cup of Nations.
“The team became more mature. We got more experienced. The previous Afcon was a very good lesson in how international football is played. It’s not only about quality, but also power and tactics. We learned a lot in Ivory Coast. That helped us qualify for the World Cup and to qualify for this Afcon.
“This team has become so mature that we are going to Afcon with much more experience than we had two years ago. That’s the biggest change.”
With next year’s World Cup on the horizon, Broos added that the squad represents a balanced blend of youth and experience.
Bafana squad for Africa Cup of Nations
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss
Defenders: Khulisso Mudau, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazu, Aubrey Moduba, Thabang Matuludi, Khulumani Ndamane, Siyabonga Ngezana, Samkelo Kabini, Tylon Smith
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Bathusi Aubaas, Sphephelo Sithole
Strikers: Mohau Nkota, Elias Mokwana, Sipho Mbule, Relebphile Mofokeng, Owsin Appolis, Tshebap Moremi, Evidence Magkopa, Lyle Foster, Shandre Campbell
On standby: Iqraam Rayners, Mduduzi Shabalala, Thabo Moloisane
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