AFCON 2025
Bafana Bafana head coach, Hugo Broos has announced a 45-man preliminary squad for South Africa’s final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
The matches are scheduled for October 10 and 14, respectively, with both fixtures crucial for South Africa’s qualification hopes.
South Africa currently leads Group C with 17 points, ahead of Benin, Nigeria, and Rwanda. However, their position is under threat due to FIFA’s disciplinary proceedings for fielding suspended midfielder Teboho Mokoena in a March qualifier against Lesotho.
If the match result is overturned, South Africa could lose three points, potentially dropping them to second place.
Notable inclusions in the squad are forwards Evidence Makgopa and Keletso Makgalwa, who return after impressive domestic performances. However, midfielder Nyiko Mobbie has been omitted due to a head injury sustained in the previous qualifier against Lesotho.
In his place, Khuliso Mudau has been called up after resolving a contractual dispute with Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Zimbabwe match will be played at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, while the venue for the Rwanda fixture remains undecided, with Nelson Mandela Bay and Mbombela Stadiums under consideration.
