By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has announced his 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria next month.
There are not many surprises in Broos’ team that will do the job for Bafana Bafana.
There is a strong Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates presence in the squad, with the two domestic giants contributing the bulk of the defensive and attacking options.
However, Kaizer Chiefs will be happy to have their Academy graduate, Mduduzi Shabalala, in the squad after impressive showings for Amakhosi.
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams [Mamelodi Sundowns], Sipho Chaine [Orlando Pirates], Ricardo Goss [Siwelele FC]
Defenders: Nyiko Mobbie [Siwelele FC], Zuko Mdunyelwa [Mamelodi Sundowns], Mbekezeli Mbokazi [Orlando Pirates], Khulumani Ndamane [TS Galaxy], Aubrey Modiba [Mamelodi Sundowns], Ime Okon [Hannover 96], Samukelo Kabini [Molde FK], Siyabonga Ngezana [FCSB].
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena [Mamelodi Sundowns], Bathusi Aubaas [Mamelodi Sundowns], Thalente Mbatha [Orlando Pirates], Luke Le Roux [Portsmouth FC].
Forwards: Kamogelo Sebelebele [Orlando Pirates], Oswin Appollis [Orlando Pirates], Patrick Maswanganyi [Orlando Pirates], Iqraam Rayners [Mamelodi Sundowns], Mduduzi Shabalala [Kaizer Chiefs], Mohau Nkota [Al-Ettifaq], Relebohile Mofokeng [Orlando Pirates].
South Africa lead Group C with 13 points while Nigeria have seven and Lesotho six respectively.