Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has announced his final 24-man squad for this month’s back-to-back 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya, with several familiar faces returning to the national team.
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South Africa will host Benni McCarthy’s Harambee Stars at Orlando Amstel Arena in Johannesburg on Friday, 13 November, before travelling to Nairobi for the return fixture on Tuesday, 17 November.
Mosimane has recalled Lyle Foster, Thalente Mbatha and Mbekezeli Mbokazi after the trio missed the previous international window, while exciting Mamelodi Sundowns youngster Siyanda Ndlovu has earned a place in the squad.
However, there is no place for Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi or Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Lebohang Maboe, while Kamogelo Sebelebele misses out through injury.
Bafana Bafana Squad
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss.
Defenders: Aubrey Modiba, Samukele Kabini, Fawaaz Basadien, Thapelo Morena, Thabang Matuludi, Olwethu Makhanya, Ime Okon, Lebone Seema, Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole, Bathusi Aubaas, Brooklyn Poggenpoel.
Forwards: Iqraam Rayners, Lyle Foster, Cassius Mailula, Oswin Appollis, Puso Dithejane, Tashreeq Matthews, Relebohile Mofokeng, Luther Singh, Tshepang Moremi, Siyanda Ndlovu.
The squad announcement comes after an impressive start to South Africa’s qualifying campaign, with Mosimane’s charges sitting top of Group D following victories over Guinea (2-1) and Eritrea (5-0).
The upcoming double-header also presents an intriguing reunion, with former Bafana Bafana striker McCarthy preparing to face his home country as Kenya’s head coach.
South Africa could take a significant step towards qualification for the 2027 tournament with two victories, although their qualification prospects will also depend on results elsewhere in the group.
Friday’s opening encounter kicks off at 18:00 SAST, with Mosimane hoping his side can maintain their perfect qualifying record before heading to Kenya.
