The national coach has finalized the squad for the upcoming continental tournament, including surprise debutants and a key striker’s return.
Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has unveiled his final 25-man squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, making several surprising selections that have set the South African football community buzzing.
The announcement, made in Auckland Park, Johannesburg on Monday, brought an end to weeks of speculation that began when Broos named a 54-man preliminary list.
One of the biggest talking points from that initial selection was the inclusion of Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane, who had only just returned from a long-term injury. However, Zwane did not make the final cut for the tournament.
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As widely expected, the squad is heavily populated with players from DStv Premiership giants Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates. Broos will be relying on this core group, who have been instrumental in the team’s recent campaigns, to spearhead South Africa’s quest for continental glory in Morocco.
Strategic Depth and Standby Options
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Hugo Broos.
In a significant boost for the national team, Burnley striker Lyle Foster has been included in the final squad. Foster was previously unavailable for selection due to mental health concerns but has been cleared to participate in this year’s tournament.
The squad also features two debutants, with Shandre Campbell and Tylon Smith earning their first senior national team call-ups.
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Broos has opted to name a 25-man squad, taking advantage of CAF regulations that permit up to four additional players beyond the standard 23 to cover for potential injuries. The South African Football Association (SAFA) will cover the costs for the two extra players.
Expanded Squad and Standby List
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SAFA also confirmed that Mduduzi Shabalala, Iqraam Rayners, and Thabo Moloisane have been placed on the official standby list.
Bafana Bafana have been drawn into Group B, where they will face Angola, Zimbabwe, and Egypt. Their campaign kicks off with a match against Angola on December 22.
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Bafana Bafana squad for 2025 AFCON
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss
Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Samukelo Kabini, Thabang Matuludi, Siyabonga Ngezana, Khulumane Ndamane, Tylon Smith
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole, Bathusi Aubaas
Forwards: Evidence Makgopa, Lyle Foster, Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota, Sipho Mbule, Tshepang Moremi, Oswin Appollis, Elias Mokwana, Shandre Campbell
