Broos blends experience and youth in Bafana AFCON squad

South Africa’s hopes for continental glory at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have taken shape as head coach Hugo Broos unveiled his final 25-man squad. The team blends experienced campaigners with exciting young talent, signaling a bold approach for the tournament. Catch all the AFCON action live on SuperSport.

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Captain Ronwen Williams headlines the list, bringing leadership and composure between the sticks. He is joined by Ricardo Goss and Sipho Chaine, both reliable options who add depth to the goalkeeping department.

The backline boasts versatility and strength. Khuliso Mudau and Aubrey Modiba provide width and attacking thrust from full-back positions, while Nkosinathi Sibisi and Siyabonga Ngezana anchor the central defense. Rising stars Khulumani Ndamane, Thabang Matuludi, Tylon Smith, and Mbekezeli Mbokazi complete a unit that promises resilience and dynamism.

𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒: Hugo Broos has announced Bafana Bafana’s #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 squad.

Mduduzi Shabalala, Iqraam Rayners and Thabo Moloisane have been named as the standby players.#SSFootball pic.twitter.com/9mkTep0P8g — SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) December 1, 2025

The engine room is powered by Teboho Mokoena, whose vision and passing range remain pivotal. He is supported by Bathusi Aubaas, Thalente Mbatha, and Sphephelo Sithole, forming a balanced mix of creativity and defensive steel.

Up front, Broos has opted for pace and flair. Lyle Foster and Evidence Makgopa lead the line, while Oswin Appollis, Mohau Nkota, and Tshepang Moremi offer width and penetration. The inclusion of Sipho Mbule, Elias Mokwana, Shandre Campbell, and teenage sensation Relebohile Mofokeng adds unpredictability and attacking depth.

A SQUAD BUILT FOR IMPACT

Broos emphasized the importance of adaptability and hunger in his selections, noting that the blend of seasoned internationals and emerging talent reflects South Africa’s ambition to challenge Africa’s elite.

With the tournament set to kick off in December, all eyes will be on whether this squad can replicate the resilience shown in recent qualifiers and push for a deep run in the competition.

Bafana Bafana’s group stage fixtures for AFCON 2025 (Group B):

Monday, December 22, 2025

South Africa v Angola – Marrakesh Stadium, Marrakesh – Kick-off: 7pm CAT

Friday, December 26, 2025

Egypt v South Africa – Adrar Stadium, Agadir – Kick-off: 5pm CAT

Monday, December 29, 2025

Zimbabwe v South Africa – Marrakesh Stadium, Marrakesh – Kick-off: 6pm CAT

We celebrating AFCON call up today.
Ngwana Sesi Phakathi inside 😂 pic.twitter.com/WJF66GbxP7 — B.E.N.Z.O (@Benzo_Ndlovu) December 1, 2025

FULL SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, Sipho Chaine

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Thabang Matuludi, Tylon Smith, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Siyabonga Ngezana, Mbekezeli Mbokazi

Midfielders: Teboho Mokeona, Bathusi Aubaas, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole

Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Mohau Nkota, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Lyle Foster, Sipho Mbule, Elias Mokwana, Shandre Campbell, Relebohile Mofokeng.