Advertisement

NO CHIEFS: Strong Bafana squad for key World Cup Qualifiers against Zim and Rwanda

football02 October 2025 11:02| © SuperSport
Share
article image
Relebohile Mofokeng © BackpagePix

With the weight of a nation on their shoulders and a World Cup dream hanging in the balance, Bafana Bafana have named a dynamic 23-man squad for their final two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

Bafana Bafana will next face Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on 10 October 2025, followed by a clash against Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium on 14 October 2025. Both matches will kick off at 6pm and they are more than just fixtures —they're a reckoning for Bafana.

STANDOUT SELECTIONS

Coach Hugo Broos has leaned into form and familiarity, calling up a blend of seasoned campaigners and rising stars. Mamelodi Sundowns dominate with seven players while Pirates contribute key attackers and defender. Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs players are notably absent from the final list. 

Ronwen Williams returns as captain and first-choice goalkeeper, bringing leadership and composure between the sticks. Teboho Mokoena, despite recent controversy over his eligibility, remains a midfield lynchpin with his range and vision.

Relebohile Mofokeng, the Orlando Pirates prodigy, earns another call-up after dazzling in domestic competition.

Iqraam Rayners and Thapelo Morena offer pace and penetration up front, crucial for breaking down compact defenses.

Sphephelo Sithole, back from Portugal’s CD Tondela, adds steel and international experience to the midfield.

Notably, Thabang Matuludi have been rewarded for consistent PSL performances, while Nkosinathi Sibisi returns to marshal the backline after captaining the side in July.

THE STAKES

South Africa currently sit second in Group C with 14 points following a FIFA ruling that docked them three points for fielding Mokoena against Lesotho. That penalty has thrown the campaign into jeopardy. Now level with Benin on 14 points, Bafana must win both matches to secure qualification outright and avoid a fourth consecutive World Cup absence.

Zimbabwe, winless in eight qualifiers, may be out of contention but remain a potential spoiler. Veteran SA-based goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze is known for frustrating top sides with his time-wasting tactics and acrobatic saves.

Rwanda, the only team to beat Bafana in this campaign, will be a stern test. Their PSL-based keeper Fiacre Ntwari and midfield dynamo Tawanada Chirewa could pose problems if South Africa fail to score early.

For coach Broos, this campaign marks a final chapter in his coaching career. For the players, it’s a chance to etch their names into history. And for South African fans, it’s a moment of hope, unity, and belief.

Victory in both matches will not just mean qualification – it will be a statement that Bafana Bafana are ready to reclaim their place on the global stage.

FULL SQUAD:

GOALKEEPERS: Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, Sipho Chaine

MIDFIELDERS: Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole, Bathusi Aubaas, Thalente Mbatha

DEFENDERS: Malibongwe Khoza, Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Thabang Matuludi, Samukelo Kabini, Nkosinathi Sibisi

FORWARDS: Thapelo Morena, Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule, Iqraam Rayners, Lyle Foster, Tshepang Moremi, Mohau Nkota, Relebohile Mofokeng.

Advertisement