The 72-year-old named his 23-man squad to play Uganda and South Sudan in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Tau has had a tough season with Al Ahly and also struggled to find his form in the national team.

In the past nine months, the star has received criticism from fans. Broos admitted leaving Percy Tau was a tough decision but explained two reasons the striker was left out.

“Percy Tau…It was not an easy decision for me to not select him but there were two things I took into account. First of all, Percy receives a lot of criticism at the moment when he plays for Bafana Bafana so I try to protect him and support him,” Broos told SABC Sport.

Broos on Percy Tau’s form at Al Ahly

“For the game against Algeria, he wasn’t there but then you saw the game against Nigeria again it was the same thing. So they don’t like him for the moment and they expect too much from him.”

Since Broos took over, Percy Tau has been one of his trusted players. Since this year’s Africa Cup of Nations, the 30-year-old has never been the same, failing to find the net in seven previous matches.

“Secondly, his situation at Al Ahly at the moment is not clear. There are rumours that he is going to leave, and that there is a problem with the transfer fee, since the beginning of August, he only played 17 minutes. The situation is not great and I was a bit afraid with all that…Percy at the moment is not ready.”

With Pery Tau failing to make the team, Broos has decided to go with Iqraam Rayners and Lyle Foster upfront.

“We need the players that are ready, not only physically but mentally,” said the Bafana coach.

Will Tau rediscover his form?

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Bafana Bafana omit Tau for Afcon qualifiers

Percy Tau has been omitted from the Bafana Bafana squad for qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan in September with an injury. Skipper Ronwen Williams also misses out with a knock. Hugo Broos has instead opted for Themba Zwane, Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi, Iqraam Rayners, Elias Mokwana, Relebohile Mofokeng and Lyle Foster as the options in the final third.

Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs represented

Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, defender Nkosinathi Sibisi, midfielder Thalente Mbatha and attackers Patrick Maswanganyi and Relebohile Mofokeng are the Orlando Pirates players to get call-ups. Mofokeng was on the score sheet on Wednesday as Pirates battled to a 1-1 draw with Cape Town City in the MTN8 semi-final first leg. Meanwhile, talented 22-year-old Chiefs defender Rushwin Dortley is in the group.

Foster is Bafana’s priciest-ever player

According to media reports on X, newly-promoted Ipswich Town are negotiating a long transfer for Lyle Foster with an obligation to buy. The 23-year-old Soweto-born striker scored five goals and supplied three assists in 24 Premier League appearances last term. Foster has 12 caps and four goals for South Africa. The obligation to buy figure is £25m, roughly €30m or R594 million.

Benni McCarthy was formerly the most expensive South African footballer ever when Celta Vigo paid Ajax €6m (R113 million) for his services. After Benni, Joburg-born playmaker Steven Pienaar was the second-most expensive when 2011 he moved from Everton to Tottenham and fetched a fee of €3.6m (R67.6 million). The guaranteed fee that Burnley will pay to Westerlo for Kyle Foster’s services has shattered the record held by Benni since 1999. The Clarets paid €7m upfront, with a further €4m of add-ons triggered because of their promotion to the EPL. Foster’s move amounted to a staggering R225 million, but now his value is estimated at €13m (R257 million).

If Foster’s proposed move to Ipswich goes through, he’ll shatter his previous record.

Bafana fans, what are your thoughts on this squad?

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Quintet of Orlando Pirates players in the final Bafana Bafana squad

Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, defender Nkosinathi Sibisi, midfielder Thalente Mbatha and attackers Patrick Maswanganyi and Relebohile Mofokeng are the players in question. Mofokeng was on the score sheet on Wednesday as Pirates battled to a 1-1 draw with Cape Town City in the MTN8 semi-final first leg.

Exciting personnel at Pirates

Dancing Angolan right-winger Gilberto arrived at the club for R11 million in late June and finally made his competitive debut in the MTN8 semi-final first-leg draw with City. Thabiso Monyane played right-back with Van Rooyen ineligible and Thabiso Lebitso nursing an injury. Monyane, unfortunately, has missed out on this final Bafana squad after being named in the preliminary group.

Former Pirates man Foster is heading back to the EPL

Meanwhile, over in England, newly-promoted Ipswich Town is negotiating a long transfer for Lyle Foster with an obligation to buy. The 23-year-old Soweto-born striker scored five goals and supplied three assists in 24 Premier League appearances last term. Foster has 12 caps and four goals for South Africa. The obligation to buy figure is £25m, roughly €30m or R594 million.

Bucs to wield the axe

According to SoccerLaduma sources, Pirates will sell or loan out as many as seven players before the new season. Sphamandla Gumede, Sandile Mthethwa, Bandile Shandu, Siphelo Baloni, Katlego Otladisa, Azola Tshobeni and the returning Goodman Mosele are all on the chopping block.

“They want to cut the squad to a sizeable one at least between 30 and 32 players, and now the team has over 40. That’s why they’re looking at letting some of them leave,” their source said.

What are your early thoughts on the final squad?

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Orlando Pirates finished the 2023-2024 DStv Premiership campaign in second place, earning a spot in the 2024-2025 Caf Champions League. Jose Riveiro’s team also won two major honours, beating Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup and MTN8 finals. Riveiro’s mandate will be to dethrone Sundowns and deliver the first top-flight league title for the Buccaneers fans since 2012.

Bafana Bafana squad includes Kaizer Chiefs star Dortley

Rushwin Dortley is the only Chiefs star in the final 23-man group. Bruce Bvuma was in the preliminary squad but hasn’t made the final cut. He’s still only 22, but Dortley is a massive prospect. He’s in the strange situation where he’s highly likely to make his full Bafana debut before pulling on a Chiefs jersey for the first time, with Afcon qualifiers on 06 and 10 September against Uganda and South Sudan. This guy has unique and coveted attributes, including a superb left foot and ball-playing ability.

New-look Kaizer Chiefs defence?

Inacio Miguel, goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari and left-back Bongani Sam and Dortley should Chiefs them a more resolute unit. Gaston Sirino arrives from Sundowns to pick a few passes, but who will stick those chances in the net? Chiefs have shifted their attention to another Young Africans striker after their pursuit of Fiston Mayele has seemingly hit a dead end. The man in question is 20-year-old Tanzanian forward Clement Mzisi. Born in 2004, Mzisi has one cap for Tanzania earned in September 2023. This after mooted moves for Fiston Mayele and Percy Tau haven’t borne any fruit. Mayele bagged 54 goals in two seasons under the tutelage of Nasreddine Nabi. Across all clubs, Mayele has 14 goals and four assists from 25 appearances in the Caf Champions League, Africa’s elite club competition. Chiefs will be disappointed to miss out.

Rushwin Dortley bio

• Date of birth: 02 May, 2002
• Place of birth: Cape Town
• Age: 22
• Height: 1.92m
• Preferred foot: Left
• Position: Central defender
• Playing style: Technically gifted ball player
• Strengths: Passing, composure, versatility
• Weaknesses: No significant weaknesses, but aerial duels are not the strongest side of his game despite his impressive height and strength

First five Betway Prem matches for Chiefs

• Marumo Gallants vs Chiefs – Saturday, 14 September, Toyota Stadium, 17:30
• Chiefs vs Stellenbosch – Sunday, 22 September, FNB Stadium, 15:00
• AmaZulu vs Chiefs – Wednesday, 25 September, King Zwelithini Stadium, 19:30
• Chiefs vs Sundowns – Saturday, 28 September, FNB Stadium, 15:00
• SuperSport United vs Chiefs – Saturday, 26 October, Lucas Moripe Stadium, 17:30

Are you excited about Dortley’s potential at the top level?

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Amajimbos head coach Vela Khumalo has been impressed by the 14-year-old and has already blooded him in the Under-17 setup.

Bafana Bafana in Khai Vally’s future

Vally’s father is delighted by the prospect of his son turning out for South Africa although he feels that developing his game in England will stand him in good stead.

“My son plays for Fulham FC under-15, yes we got invited to come here for the camp and he really enjoyed it.

“First of all, we came here to my country of birth and to let him experience football over side. He can gain a lot of experience from a kind of football and cultural experience. The style of play here is very different from the UK, a lot of space awareness, ball control and moving players around, he enjoyed it over here,” Llewelyn Vally told SABC Sport.

Vally is thrilled that his son is getting opportunities to play for South Africa at multiple age group levels at once, believing this will help him get better as a player.

Fulham the place to be

They feel that the Fulham setup was a great choice of club for the young talent. Bafana Bafana might reap the rewards.

”He’s only 14, he will only turn 15 in October. There’s talk for him to come in to play in the under-15 training camp, we would like for him to bounce in two age groups. At the end of the day it is such a great experience for him. Football is not a sprint it is a journey, if he can take something from this experience to England, then I am a happy father.

“It is second to none, they are well looked after, they train four times a week, they get to play against top teams in England. Fulham is a fantastic family oriented club, great for development.

“Kai could have signed with a different club but we chose Fulham,” added Vally.

Soweto to Finland and back again

Another overseas-based player who got a look-in during the recent youth internationals was Finnish-based Samuel Salminen.

He was adopted by Finnish parents and moved to Europe at the age of five. However, the Diepkloof-born midfielder also played in the second Amajimbos outing against Lesotho, and his father, Riku Salmninen, accompanied him as he returned to South Africa for the first time since his adoption.

”So we adopted Samuel when he was very young and raised him in Finland. SAFA discovered him three years ago, and last Autumn they sent messages and we followed up and came here to meet the technical staff. Yes he was born in Soweto, and it is meaningful for him to play here,” said Salminen.

SAFA’s recently stated policy of pursuing South African-born talent or players with biological ties to the country who live outside the country is now taking form.

Should Bafana Bafana pursue players outside of the country?

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With the 2026 FIFA World Cup around the corner, the PSL-winning coach has warned the South African Football Association to pay Broos what he deserves. According to Sunday World, Safa wanted Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie to assist with Broos’ R1.5-million monthly salary.

Former Pirates coach Palacios says Broos is worth the salary he is getting.

“If you look at what coach Hugo Broos has done you can’t afford to lose such a coach. For the first time after a long time, he took the team to the Afcon semi-finals with players most people doubted and that is great work,” Palacios told Soccer Laduma. 

Ex-Pirates coach warns Safa, wants Broos paid

“If he is worth the salary that SAFA is talking about then the best way is to find a way of keeping him. You can’t lose such a coach right now. If the issue is the salary then the powers that be should work on that and make sure he stays. He deserves that and he has to stay.

“Look at the players he has been bringing into the national team. They are players that he believes in and are doing great work for the team and the country,” Palacios added. 

The former Orlando Pirates development coach believes Bafana are on the right track under Broos and should keep him.

“We are now in the qualifiers for both Afcon 2025 and the World Cup 2026 and can’t be thinking of changing coaches as that will disturb and destroy the team. We are on the right path so let’s keep on doing well with the coach that we have.”

Palacios wants Hugo Broos paid

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The Vitesse striker was the only unknown name in Hugo Broos‘ squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Although he was born in the Netherlands, the 22-year-old is eligible to represent Bafana due to his South African father.

Speaking to iDiski Times, the Dutch-born player it meant a lot for him to be named in the Bafana Bafana team. South Africa will take on Uganda at Orlando Stadium on September 6 before travelling to South Sudan four days later for the Afcon qualifiers.

“Yes, [I’m excited] this means a lot to me and my family, as a little boy you dream of this and now it really happens and that is beautiful,” Van Duivenbooden told iDiski Times. 

Dutch-born striker eager to play for Bafana

“I thought it was a shame that I could not be with the U23s but never managed to [get] my passport and now we are here [with the senior squad].”

If Van Duivenbooden makes the final cut, he could line alongside the likes of Percy Tau, Lyle Foster and Themba Zwane. The Dutch-born striker played 61 minutes for his club Vitesse last Friday but was unable to find the back of the net.

Will Simon make an impact for Bafana?

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Dortley gets his Bafana Bafana call

22-year-old Rushwin Dortley has played age-group football for the national team before, but his first senior call-up came on Tuesday. He was called up to Hugo Broos’ preliminary squad for crunch Afcon qualifiers against Uganda on 06 September and South Sudan on 10 September. This preliminary group of 38 will be whittled down at some stage to 23 players. Even if he doesn’t make the cut, it’s a significant step in his progress to be in the manager’s thinking. It’s been a staggering rise for the left-footed central defender. His arrival has even cast some doubt over the future of Thatayaone Ditlhokwe at Naturena.

Kaizer Chiefs get their man from Cape Town Spurs

Chiefs successfully negotiated a R10 million deal to sign Dortley from Mother City side Spurs. They haven’t been quite as successful in their pursuit of 21-year-old Asanele Velebayi, however. The winger will stay put at Spurs after their CEO wasn’t satisfied with the offer Chiefs tabled.

Preliminary Bafana squad ICYMI

The 38-man squad includes three Chiefs players and seven from Orlando Pirates.

Chiefs’ first five in the Betway Premiership

Chiefs get their 2024-2025 campaign underway with a trip to Marumo Gallants. Here’s what fans can expect in the opening weeks, including testing assignments against the champions and last season’s seventh-place finishers SuperSport. Nabi hopes to have new signings, such as Fiacre Ntwari, Dortley, Bongani Sam, Gaston Sirino, and Inacio Miguel, all integrated, fit, and firing. He’ll also want to have a few more names on board by then. The transfer window closes on 20 September, by which time Dortley could already be a full Bafana international.

• Marumo Gallants vs Chiefs – Saturday, 14 September, Toyota Stadium, 17:30
• Chiefs vs Stellenbosch – Sunday, 22 September, FNB Stadium, 15:00
• AmaZulu vs Chiefs – Wednesday, 25 September, King Zwelithini Stadium, 19:30
• Chiefs vs Sundowns – Saturday, 28 September, FNB Stadium, 15:00
• SuperSport United vs Chiefs – Saturday, 26 October, Lucas Moripe Stadium, 17:30

Is Dortley worth the hype, Amakhosi fans?

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Kaizer Chiefs finished the 2023-2024 league campaign in tenth position, their worst placing in the history of the DStv Premiership. Their last league title came back in 2015, their most recent piece of major silverware. They begin the new 2024-2025 Betway Premiership campaign away to Marumo Gallants on 14 September.

Bafana will play Uganda and South Sudan in two 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in September 2024. The Bafana coach announced his preliminary squad which featured familiar faces however Duivenbooden was the name that stood out.

The 22-year-old striker is now eligible to represent South Africa. Van Duivenbooden’s father was born in South Africa which makes him eligible to play for the Netherlands and Bafana Bafana. Last year, iDiski Times, said the striker officially received his South African passport and identity documents.

Bafana coach Hugo Broos selects Dutch player in his squad

If Van Duivenbooden makes the final cut, he could line alongside the likes of Percy Tau, Lyle Foster and Themba Zwane. The first AFCON qualifier will be played at Orlando Stadium in Soweto and kick-off is at 18:00 on Friday, 06 September 2024.

Bafana Bafana’s final squad is expected to be announced in the next coming week.

“Ticket sales are now open, please come out in numbers and make it count in the stands. We want to continue the momentum and the amazing scenes we saw in Bloemfontein when Bafana Bafana faced Zimbabwe in June. We want to see the same at Orlando Stadium,” said SAFA CEO Danny Jordaan.

Broos’ Bafana squad consists of 11 Mamelodi Sundowns players with Sipho Chaine and Van Duivenbooden being the only uncapped players.

Are Bafana on the right track?

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Seven Orlando Pirates stars in latest Bafana Bafana squad

Sipho Chaine, Thabiso Monyane, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thalente Mbatha, Patrick Maswanganyi and Evidence Makgopa are seven Pirates players to make the preliminary squad to contest Afcon qualifiers in September. Bafana faces Uganda on 06 September and South Sudan on 10 September. This preliminary group of 38 will be whittled down at some stage to 23 players.

First five Betway Premiership matches

• Pirates vs Chippa United, Saturday, 14 September Orlando Stadium, 15:00
• Cape Town City vs Pirates, Saturday, 21 September, DHL Stadium, 15:00
• Pirates vs Polokwane City, Tuesday, 24 September, Orlando Stadium, 15:00
• Richards Bay vs Pirates, Sunday, 29 September, King Zwelithini Stadium, 15:00
• Pirates vs AmaZulu, Friday, 25 October, Orlando Stadium, 19:30

Mofokeng ready to make the grade for club and country

It’s easy to forget that Relebohile Mofokeng is still just a teenager. He’s already a full Bafana Bafana international after making his national debut in June this year, and he’s also an increasingly important member of the Pirates setup.

Caf qualification in the balance still

Pirates must negotiate a two-legged Caf Champions League qualifier against Disciples FC. The teams drew 0-0 in the first leg and will meet for the second leg on Friday 23 August. It’s the start of a busy schedule for the Sea Robbers who also have two MTN8 semi-finals to prepare for with Cape Town City away from home on 27 August and then at home on 31 August. The Buccaneers could very realistically have sealed Caf Champions League qualification and a place in the MTN8 final before the new Betway Prem season even kicks off.

Will all seven of these Bucs players make the final cut?

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Orlando Pirates finished the 2023-2024 DStv Premiership campaign in second place, earning a spot in the 2024-2025 Caf Champions League. Jose Riveiro’s team also won two major honours, beating Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup and MTN8 finals. Riveiro’s mandate will be to dethrone Sundowns and deliver the first top-flight league title for the Buccaneers fans since 2012.

Broos announces Bafana squad

Bruce Bvuma, Given Msimango and Rushwin Dortley are three Kaizer Chiefs players to make the preliminary squad to contest Afcon qualifiers in September. Bafana faces Uganda on 06 September and South Sudan on 10 September. This preliminary group of 38 will be whittled down at some stage to 23 players.

Dortley is the real deal

22-year-old Rushwin Dortley has earned national recognition for age group sides but this is his first call-up to the senior setup. It’s been a staggering rise for the left-footed central defender. His arrival has even cast some doubt over the future of Thatayaone Ditlhokwe at Naturena.

Kaizer Chiefs’ first five in the league

Chiefs get their 2024-2025 campaign underway with a trip to Marumo Gallants. Here’s what fans can expect in the opening weeks, including testing assignments against the champions and last season’s seventh-place finishers SuperSport. Nabi hopes to have new signings, such as Fiacre Ntwari, Rushwin Dortley, Bongani Sam, Gaston Sirino, and Inacio Miguel, all integrated, fit, and firing. He’ll also want to have a few more names on board by then. The transfer window closes on 20 September.

• Marumo Gallants vs Chiefs – Saturday, 14 September, Toyota Stadium, 17:30
• Chiefs vs Stellenbosch – Sunday, 22 September, FNB Stadium, 15:00
• AmaZulu vs Chiefs – Wednesday, 25 September, King Zwelithini Stadium, 19:30
• Chiefs vs Sundowns – Saturday, 28 September, FNB Stadium, 15:00
• SuperSport United vs Chiefs – Saturday, 26 October, Lucas Moripe Stadium, 17:30

Is the tide turning for Chiefs players and their status in the Bafana setup?

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Kaizer Chiefs finished the 2023-2024 league campaign in tenth position, their worst placing in the history of the DStv Premiership. Their last league title came back in 2015, their most recent piece of major silverware. They begin the new 2024-2025 Betway Premiership campaign away to Marumo Gallants on 14 September.

Ahead of these highly-anticipated fixtures, Hugo Broos has revealed his latest squad, which includes three Kaizer Chiefs players: Bruce Bvuma, Rushwin Dortley and Given Msimango.

Here is the full Bafana preliminary squad:

All to play for

The first Afcon qualifier will be played at Orlando Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg, and kick off is at 18:00 on Friday, 06 September.

SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan urged supporters to come out in numbers and support Bafana in the same way they have shown in the last few months.

“Ticket sales are now open, please come out in numbers and make it count in the stands. We want to continue the momentum and the amazing scenes we saw in Bloemfontein when Bafana faced Zimbabwe in June. We want to see the same at Orlando Stadium,” said Dr Jordaan.

After facing Uganda at Orlando Stadium, Broos’ charges will travel to South Sudan to play their second match in the group on Tuesday, 10 September 2024.

The two top finishers will qualify for the tournament to be hosted in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

South Africa have climbed up the latest FIFA rankings, moving from 59th to 57th in the world, having recorded a 3-1 win over Zimbabwe and a 1-1 draw away to Nigeria in their recent 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Thulani Serero has had an interesting career

Once a key first-team regular for the national team, Serero has been in the international wilderness for three years. An Afcon qualifier against Sudan in November 2019 was Serero’s most recent appearance in a Bafana jersey. Of his last nine Bafana Bafana appearances, he only started three.

Linked to Kaizer Chiefs, but who isn’t these days?

In the immediate aftermath of Njabulo Blom’s departure to the MLS in 2022, there’s been a clamour for a commanding central midfield presence at Chiefs. So far in the winter window of 2024, Chiefs have yet to bring in a specialist central midfield general. Inacio Miguel can operate there but he’s a central defender by trade.

A Dutch master

Thulani Serero spent eight years on the European club scene and the entirety of it was in the Netherlands. It began with Ajax Amsterdam in 2011 after a €2.5m (R50 million) move from partner club Ajax Cape Town. He spent six years with the Dutch giants, notching 121 appearances for the club including 11 outings in the Champions League. His 2017 move to Vitesse Arnhem saw him link up effectively with current Arsenal skipper Martin Ødegaard. Serero played a withdrawn midfield role for Vitesse with Ødegaard ahead of him as an 8. Ødegaard was 19 until December that year, and now he’s entering his second full season as the Gunners skipper, aged 25. Serero’s transfer value reached its ceiling of €4m (R80 million) in February 2015 at the peak of his Ajax powers.

Where is Thulani Serero now?

No matter the reasoning, it’s a shame that Serero never produced his best for the national team. 43 caps isn’t a bad tally, but a player of his quality and European experience should have been more instrumental for his country. There were some disciplinary issues along the way, but that’s often part of the package with talented footballers. Serero’s club adventure has taken him to Khor Fakkan in the UAE after four years with Al Jazira where he won the title in 2017 and 2021.

Did Bafana under-utilize Serero’s skills?

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Kaizer Chiefs are linked with several Bafana Bafana, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns targets.

Interestingly, Amakhosi has made several offers for national players since Nabi’s arrival.

CHIEFS AND NABI PLANNING TO RAID BAFANA BAFANA

Chiefs have made three offers for red-hot Bafana Bafana attackers. Firstly, they made an offer for Elias Mokwana. However, they did not hear back. So, Chiefs made a new and improved offer for the skillful winger.

“Kaizer Chiefs are not ready to give up in their pursuit of Sekhukhune United star Elias Mokwana as they look forward to submitting a fresh offer for his services,” SoccerLaduma wrote.

Meanwhile, Chiefs have made an offer for Percy Tau. Unfortunately, their offer was rejected.

“It is said that the Egyptian club did not consider the offer due to it being of ‘weak financial compensation,” KickOff stated.

However, Tau to Chiefs is still alive after the club responded with good and bad news.

Finally, Amakhosi are closing in on the signature of this Bafana Bafana striker. Meaning, they are set to beat Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns to his coveted signature.

AMAKHOSI TO ANNOUNCE NEW SIGNING ON 28 JULY

Chiefs will announce their new signings on 28 July 2024. In fact, fans will have the chance to see Amakhosi’s newest additions when their side takes on Yanga SC in the Toyota Cup at the Toyota.

Kick off is at 15:00.

“For its inaugural edition set to be played at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on Sunday, 28 July at 15h00, the Mighty Amakhosi will face Tanzania’s most successful football team, Young Africans Sports Club,” Chiefs confirmed.

IF YOU COULD SIGN ONE BAFANA BAFANA PLAYER TO CHIEFS WHO WOULD YOU SIGN?

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Bafana Bafana have climbed in the latest FIFA World Rankings.

Furthermore, Hugo Broos’ men are well placed to qualify for the 2026 Fifa World Cup. South Africa beat Zimbabwe 3-1 and drew 1-1 with Nigeria to set themselves up with their best chance of qualifying for the World Cup since 2002. So, this time we must make sure and we have the means to do so.

DEAR BAFANA BAFANA, SIGN PITSO AND BENNI MCCARTHY!

Dear Bafana Bafana and SAFA, Hugo Broos and South Africa are well poised to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, we have been here many times before and we all know how that went. On the cusp of qualifying and then falling at the final hurdle. Therefore, this time we need to make sure and we have the resources to do so. Now, I am not saying get rid of Hugo Broos.

So, please sign Pitso Mosimane and Benni McCarthy. Firstly, Mosimane is SA’s most successful club coach and McCarthy is our most successful player. Therefore, the players would have the ultimate respect, discipline and motivation under these men. Furthermore, Mosimane and McCarthy have gained huge experience with their exploits abroad. Mosimane has conquered Africa and the PSL. Whilst, earning millions coaching teams in the Middle East (Al Ahli, Al Abha and ). Meanwhile, McCarthy has made a succusful transition from player to coach with a succusful history-making stint at AmaZulu before making history by joining English Premier League giants, Manchester United where he even coached Cristiano Ronaldo. Pitso’s experience and wisdom will work perfectly alongside Broos. Meanwhile, McCarthy was a role model to many of these players growing up. He will sharpen up Percy Tau’s finishing and Mosimane will bring out the best in him. This is symbolic of the influence they will have on the whole squad.

LETS UNITE AND TAKE ON THE FOOTBALL WORLD, MZANSI!

Ultimately, this is a call for the whole of South Africa, Bafana Bafana, our history, reputation, culture and tradition. To unite and put our differences aside and show our strength in diversity as we as South Africans are known for.

Both men are available and the stars are aligned.

The FIFA World Cup is the epitome of football and we have our best chance of qualifying since 2002. Yes, we featured in 2010 but this is because we were the hosts and what beautiful hosts were were. However, we don’t want the 2010 FIFA World Cup to be our final chapter in world football. Likewise, Mosimane has a point to prove with Bafana Bafana after an underwhelming first tenure. However, he is a different man and McCarthy is now a coach and both men are available. Finally, both men recently invited offers from Bafana Bafana. First, McCarthy’s agent confirmed that he will not join Kaizer Chiefs or Orlando Pirates but would consider coaching SA. Meanwhile, Mosimane’s main focus is on the future of SA football and he wants a team with a vision and project. There is no greater vision and project than qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. First, making sure and then putting our best foot (or feet) and heads together to test ourselves against the whole world.

LATEST GROUP C STANDINGS:

SA currently share top spot with Rwanda and Benin all tied on seven points.

Moreover, the 2026 Fifa World Cup has been extended from 32 teams to 48. Meaning, Africa will have NINE participants. Therefore, the winner of each group will automatically qualify for the World Cup.

BAFANA BAFANA ARE CLOSE TO QUALIFYING FOR THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP. DO YOU BELIEVE SA WILL QUALIFY AND SHOULD THEY SIGN PITSO MOSIMANE AND BENNI MCCARTHY IF THEY DO?

Sources close to the situation have confirmed that ‘Yaya’ as he is known, is nearing a transfer to Gil Vicente, a club that finished 12th in the league last season. The negotiations are progressing positively, signalling a potential reunion for Sithole with his former Tondela coach Toze Marreco. Under Marreco’s guidance at Tondela, Sithole made 21 appearances, scoring two goals and providing two assists, showcasing his capabilities on the pitch.

Sphephelo Sithole’s form and national team impact 

Despite facing challenges in his club career, including a relegation stint with B-SAD, Sithole has consistently shone on the international stage. His pivotal role under head coach Hugo Broos was instrumental in South Africa’s commendable third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast. Sithole’s technical prowess and leadership qualities have made him a valued asset for both club and country.

Mounie’s perspective on Bafana Bafana

Adding to the narrative, Augsburg and Benin striker Steve Mounie recently expressed admiration for the quality displayed by the Bafana Bafana squad during their encounters. Notably, Mounie captained Benin in a closely contested 2-1 loss against South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying opener at Moses Mabhida Stadium in November 2023.

Following their initial defeat to South Africa, Benin has rallied impressively in their qualifying group, securing draws against Lesotho and claiming victories over Nigeria and Rwanda. With seven points to their name, Benin stands level with both South Africa and an East African nation, setting the stage for compelling upcoming matches as they pursue qualification.

Insights on South Africa’s playing style

Reflecting on the match against Bafana Bafana, Mounie highlighted the team’s cohesive play, particularly among players from Mamelodi Sundowns. He commended their adeptness in quick passing and ability to navigate tight spaces, traits that pose significant challenges to opponents. Mounie emphasised the importance for Benin to adapt and counteract South Africa’s strategic approach in future encounters to secure favourable results.

As Sphephelo ‘Yaya’ Sithole prepares for a potential move to Gil Vicente, his career trajectory continues to ascend, buoyed by his consistent impact on the international scene. Concurrently, Steve Mounie’s observations underscore the competitive prowess of teams like Bafana Bafana and the strategic depth they bring to international competitions. Both players remain pivotal figures for their national teams, poised to influence their respective campaigns as they navigate through upcoming challenges and opportunities.
Stay informed with all the latest news, updates, and developments from The South African!

Bafana Bafana have climbed up the latest FIFA World Rankings.

Meanwhile, Spain have risen after winning the 2024 Euro’s in Germany.

BAFANA BAFANA CLIMB UP FIFA WORLD RANKINGS

South Africa have gone up two places moving from 59th to 57th in the world.

Furthermore, Hugo Broos’ recorded a 3-1 win over Zimbabwe and a 1-1 draw away to Nigeria in their recent 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Therefore, Bafana Bafana have retained their spot in Africa’s top 10.

CAF WORLD RANKINGS – UPDATED

Screenshot taken on 18 July 2024 off insidefifa.com.

BIG MOVEMENT AFTER EURO’S AND COPA AMERICA

In Europe, Spains 2024 Euro triumph has seen them rise to third in the world (up from eighth).

Additionally, Turkey (up 16) were the biggest movers in Europe. Meanwhile, Argentina retained there place as the top of the World Rankings with their Copa America win. Whilst, Venezuela were the biggest climbers in South America. They went from 54th to 34th.

“Belgium (6th, down 3) now find themselves outside the top five, with the Netherlands (7th) and Portugal (8th, down 2) just behind them. Colombia (9th, up 3) may find solace in their creditable return to the top ten despite a narrow defeat to La Albiceleste in the Copa America decider, while Italy (10th) stay as they were. Elsewhere in the top 50, two sides have risen spectacularly up the standings after having graced the quarter finals of their respective continental competitions – Türkiye (26th, up 16) and Venezuela (37th, up 17),”

“Other notable advances were made by Panama (35th, up 8) and Canada (40th, up 8), who both performed admirably on US soil. OFC Men’s Nations Cup winners New Zealand (94th, up 13) are back amongst the top 100 after a seven-year hiatus, while other Pacific nations also made notable progress, including Fiji (153rd, up 13) and Vanuatu (162nd, up 8),” FIFA concluded.

Bafana star Mokoena priced at R54 million by Sundowns

Sundowns want over R50 million for Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena. Egyptian side Al Ahly have been credited with an interest, according to Soccer-Laduma.

“With Al Ahly sniffing around for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena, the Brazilians’ reported asking price for their star player has been revealed. $3 million (±R54 million) that is how much it would take for Al Ahly to get Mokoena from Sundowns. This price tag emerged after it was reported that the Egyptian giants had come knocking for the 27-year-old once again. According to Cairo24, Al Ahly made an approach to Sundowns, who in turn revealed their asking price for the player.”

Sundowns let go of Mobbie

A trusted lieutenant of Hugo Broos at international level, right-back Nyiko Mobbie hasn’t enjoyed the same continued trust from club bosses. Recently he was out on loan with Sekhukhune. Mobbie was with Bafana at Afcon in Ivory Coast. At 29, he still has plenty to offer after spells with Free State Stars, Stellenbosch, Chippa and Babina Noko. According to the public broadcaster SABC Sport, SuperSport are pushing to make Mobbie’s proposed move permanent. Matsatsantsa head to Botswana to continue their pre-season work in earnest.

Kaizer Chiefs want Cele

On other local football news, Soccer-Laduma sources report that Chiefs will reignite their interest in Bafana midfield general Thabo Cele. The 27-year-old currently plies his trade in Russia. Additional sources claims that Cele is ready to return to South Africa. He has five caps for the national team. Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates beat Sevilla 2-0 in a friendly Monday night.

“They have been following him for almost three years now and the team’s scouts have been monitoring him and now he is back on Chiefs’ radar. Indications are that they have been talking to his representatives and the talks have been positive. “He will be like a replacement for Siyethemba Sithebe in the defensive midfield position. So it’s a opportunity that could happen in this window period,” said the source.

How much should Mokoena fetch if he moves this winter?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or emailing info@thesouthafrican.com. You can also send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for your social fix.

Hugo Broos’s side were drawn in Group K alongside Uganda, Congo Brazzaville, South Sudan

A look at the latest FIFA rankings shows that Uganda are ranked 94th in the world, Congo Brazzaville are 113th and South Sudan find themselves in 167th place.

Bafana Bafana are ranked 59th.

Winners and runners-up will qualify from each group, except that containing Morocco, who will take part to gain competitive match practice.

Morocco qualify automatically as hosts so only the best placed of the other three teams in their section will secure a place.

Morocco will host the next African Cup of Nations (Afcon) from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

Ivory Coast are the defending champions.

Matchday dates

September 2-10: Matchdays 1, 2

October 7-15: Matchdays 3, 4

November 11-15: Matchdays 5, 6

GROUP DRAW

Group A

Tunisia, Madagascar, Comoros, Gambia

Group B

Morocco (hosts), Gabon, Central African Republic, Lesotho

Group C

Egypt, Cape Verde, Mauritania, Botswana

Group D

Nigeria, Benin, Libya, Rwanda

Group E

Algeria, Equatorial Guinea, Togo, Liberia

Group F

Ghana, Angola, Sudan, Niger

Group G

Ivory Coast, Zambia, Sierra Leone, Chad

Group H

Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Tanzania, Ethiopia

Group I

Mali, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, Eswatini

Group J

Cameroon, Namibia, Kenya, Zimbabwe

Group K

South Africa, Uganda, Congo Brazzaville, South Sudan

Group L

Senegal, Burkina Faso, Malawi, Burundi

Notes

Liberia, Eswatini, South Sudan and Chad won preliminary ties, while the other 44 qualifiers received byes.

Kaizer Chiefs have dominated the PSL highest-paid over the past few seasons. Initially, the likes of Samir Nurkovic and Khama Billiat previously had this honour. Moreover, Dolly has been the highest-paid player in the DStv Premiership since arriving back in SA. Therefore, two foreign-based players and a player who is no longer in the national picture have prevented Bafana Bafana stars from having the right to be known as the PSL’s top earner.

However, times have changed. Mamelodi Sundowns released Bongane Zungu. Meanwhile, Dolly is one of four Chiefs players who have reportedly been told they will be released at the end of the week.

BAFANA BAFANA FAN-FAVOURITE THE NEW TOP-EARNER IN THE PSL

South African and Mamelodi Sundowns captain, Ronwen Williams will become the new highest-paid player in the PSL. Ultimately, this brings a more justified taste to SA readers given the current context of SA football.

Firstly, Sundowns have dominated the DStv Premiership. Winning seven titles on the trot. Whereas Chiefs and Pirates have not been within touching season for most of this time. Barring, the infamous 2019/20 season where Amakhosi lost the title in dramatic fashion on the final day. Otherwise, it’s been a one way street between The Brazilians and the DStv Premiership title. Therefore, it makes sense that they have the leagues highest-paid player.

Furthermore, he is Bafana Bafana captain. One of the top players in the PSL and South Africa. The man leading SA and the top side in the PSL deserves to be the leagues new-highest-paid. However, he is not alone with an Orlando Pirates star earning the same salary.

RONWEN WILLIAMS SALARY TIED WITH ORLANDO PIRATES MAN

Williams reportedly takes home R500 000 a month, according to recent reports. Meanwhile, Pirates star Deon Hotto is believed to be taking home R500 000 as well. Therefore, both men share the throne as the highest-paid PSL players.

However, Pirates star Hotto is linked with a likely exit. Meaning, Williams could very well enter the 2024/25 DStv Premiership as the leagues top-earner. Regardless, he will become the highest paid SA or Bafana Bafana star in the competition.

Interestingly, this could change with new signings set to be announced by Chiefs, Pirates, Sundowns and the rest of the PSL.

The 22-year-old striker is now eligible to represent South Africa. Van Duivenbooden’s father was born in South Africa which makes him eligible to play for the Netherlands and Bafana Bafana. According to iDiski Times, the former PSV academy player has now officially received his South African passport and identity documents.

Dutch striker eligible for Bafana Bafana

“My dad was born in South Africa, and a lot of my family live here,” Van Duivenbooden told iDiski Times.

“I think South Africa is a very beautiful country and I always wanted to play for South Africa when I was younger, when I got the opportunity to get citizenship, I thought it was perfect.

“I want to play for South Africa and I will work hard this season to get the attention of the national team coaches,” he concluded. 

If Van Duivenbooden plays for Bafana, he won’t be the first Dutch-born striker to play for Bafana Bafana. Lars Veldwijk represented South Africa seven times thanks to his paternal lineage.

Simon Van Duivenbooden scored 34 goals in 64 development squad games before his promotion to the first team. He is currently signed with Vitesse where he scored just once in 11 matches. The striker’s availability will now provide Bafana coach Broos with more options upfront.

Bafana Bafana’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers only resume next year in March but with friendly matches scheduled towards the end of the year, Duivenbooden has a chance to impress.

Kaizer Chiefs have a whole new team worth of red-hot transfer targets. Meanwhile, Amakhosi have 12 players linked with departures. Whilst, Chiefs have lined up a whole new team of red-hot tantalizing transfer targets.

So, fans can expect a new-look Chiefs next season. Interestingly, SIX of their targets are Bafana Bafana players.

CHIEFS INTERESTED IN SIX BAFANA BAFANA ATTACKERS

Percy Tau, Lebo Mothiba, Elias Mokwana, Oswin Appolis and Tshepang Moremi and Luther Singh are all being monitored by Chiefs.

Tau is open to joining Kaizer Chiefs. However, the Lion of Judah has one condition – Amakhosi sign Pitso Mosimane. Therefore, Chiefs can sign Tau and Mosimane. However, Nasreddine Nabi is the current favourite for the Chiefs hot seat.

Meanwhile, Mothiba and Chiefs are holding talks.

“They are still talking. It’s not a done deal but negotiations are underway. Doubts are still there because he has just recovered from injury but they are expecting a final decision in the next few days. The team wants experienced strikers who can work with the youth and help the team going forward. And they feel Lebo (Mothiba) could be that player at the moment,” the insider stated on SNL.

SUNDOWNS AND PIRATES IN BIDDING WAR WITH AMAKHOSI

Moreover, Mokwana is being pursued by Amakhosi and Sundowns, as reported on The South African. Meaning, the speedy and skillful Sekhukhune United wing is hot property right now. Speaking of hot property, Moremi has taken the local football scene in SA by storm.

“As of now we can say that Tshepang (Moremi) is the most wanted player at the club. Mamelodi Sundowns have already made an official offer though it seems they will have it tough from rivals Orlando Pirates, and now Kaizer Chiefs have also made inquiries about him,” the report read on SoccerLaduma.

Appolliss is another name that everyone talking – including the ‘Big Three’. Sundowns, Chiefs and Pirates are interested in the new Bafana Bafana talent from Polokwane City, according to KickOff.

Bafana Bafana legend Mark Williams was recently spotted at Naturena, offering his services to Kaizer Chiefs.

In fact, he wants to be their striker coach.

BAFANA BAFANA LEGEND OFFERS HIS SERVICES TO CHIEFS

Williams, is an icon in Bafana Bafana football history. He most famously scored both goals in the final when South Africa were crowned 1996 Afcon champions. Meanwhile, he scored four goals to become the joint top goal-scorer during that memorable tournament.

Now, he wants to be the next Chiefs striker coach.

“Chiefs are not scoring goals, but they are playing good football. I went there, and I said, ‘let me be a striker coach’,” he told FarPost.

So, Williams was at Naturena and he has officially availed himself as a potential striker coach. Moreover, Williams has opened the door, inviting an offer.

“I am waiting. I am waiting in the door; I am not giving up. All I want to do is to help the strikers. So if I can help the strikers score week in and week out, that means 85 per cent of South African fans will be happy because they will score goals and win. Football is about scoring goals and winning,” he added on the same publication.

LEGENDARY NAMES LINE UP TO HELP AMAKHOSI

Pitso Mosimane, Benni McCarthy and an Amakhosi legend have all recently hinted at the possibility of joining Chiefs.

Furthermore, Mosimane to Chiefs is alive and well after Nasreddine Nabi’s shocking statement. Meanwhile, McCarthy has stated that he would not say no to Amakhosi. Meanwhile, his Manchester United contract is set to expire at the end of the mont. Finally, an Amakhosi legend has been linked with the Chiefs job. All of this men, alongside Williams, have the potential to help return Amakhosi to their glory days.

Enjoy the Ultimate UEFA Euro Experience with ATKV Resorts

The South African national side are now second in Group C with seven points after four (of 10) matches.

They are level on points with Rwanda who top the group on goal difference.

Bafana Bafana have recorded two wins, a draw and a loss in their four matches to date.

Hugo Broos’ side beat Benin 2-1 at home, before losing 2-0 to Rwanda away.

They then drew 1-1 with Nigeria away before their most recent win over Zimbabwe.

Bafana Bafana will next be in action at home against Lesotho on 25 March 2025.

QUALIFYING HAS CHANGED

Bafana Bafana have been drawn in Group C along with Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Rwanda, Lesotho and Benin.

The CAF qualification structure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has changed from previous years.

A record nine African teams at last will qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup – and a 10th is a possibility.

All 54 FIFA-affiliated football associations from CAF entered qualification.

Teams were drawn into nine groups of six teams to play home-and-away round-robin matches.

However, Eritrea withdrew before matches began, leaving five teams in Group E.

The winner of each of the nine groups will qualify for the World Cup.

In addition, the four best-ranked group runners-up will participate in a playoff to determine which team will advance to the inter-confederation playoffs.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

LATEST GROUP C STANDINGS

Lepasa following Kermit to the Cape?

Local outlet iDiski Times believes that Cape Town City wants to take a gamble on Zakhele Lepasa. This news comes just days after Kermit Erasmus, recently released by Pirates, was also linked with a return to his former club.

“It’s believed that John Comitis is keeping a close eye on Zakhele Lepasa’s situation at Orlando Pirates. The club has earmarked the 27-year-old as the ideal striker for Eric Tinkler’s side in 2024/25.”

Consistently inconsistent

After a brief purple patch in front of goal in 2022, Lepasa’s productivity has dried up again. He scored three times in 15 league appearances in 2023-2024, often overlooked because of the form of Tshegofatso Mabasa and the physical prowess of Evidence Makgopa. Ironically, Golden Boot winner Mabasa, who struck 16 times in the DStv Premiership, isn’t part of Hugo Broos’ plans at the national level while Lepasa is one of the Belgian’s most trusted squad options behind Makgopa for Bafana. However, he wasn’t included in the recent group for qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe, perhaps indicating now’s the time for him to secure first-team football elsewhere and get his club career back on track.

MONYANE SIGNS NEW TERMS

Regular Pirates right-back Thabiso Monyane was on the verge of seeing his contract expire. However, the Buccaneers have moved swiftly to extend their terms. The popular opinion is that right-back is an area which requires improvement at the club, but Monyane’s experience is vital. Right now, 24-year-old Monyane is the incumbent with his namesake Thabiso Lebitso the more marauding, forward-thinking option on that side of defence. Lebitso is 32, however, so time isn’t on his side and the board clearly see Monyane as the long-term holder of the position.

“Yes, apparently it’s a three-year contract. According to the records we have his current contract could have expired this month, but now he will be at the team until June 2027. He has the experience now and with the other players in his position it’s good for the team as they will be playing in the CAF Champions League and they need experienced players in all departments. So, yes it’s a three-year deal and everything is happy at the moment,” said a source to Soccer-Laduma.

Would you be in the market for another new striker, Bucs fans?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com. You can also send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

Meanwhile, you can follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest DStv Premiership news.

Under Hugo Broos, the national team managed to reach the last four at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations. Mosimane, who coached Bafana from 2010 to 2012, believes Broos has a good squad to work with.

“I think at this point in time, we have a good team. We have a good coach. Yes, people were doubting whether he was the right one or not. But he has proven that he can take the team to the semi-finals of Afcon, so it shows that we have a good team,” Mosimane told Soccer Laduma. 

Pitso backs Bafana Bafana to qualify for next World Cup in USA

“But the good team is not only the coach, it’s the players. We have players like Teboho Mokoena who play in the Champions League, they have the experience also, so Sundowns’ players have really contributed to the national team. 

“The likes of Themba Zwane, I think he is playing in the Champions League 10 years in a row. No? So, they have experience, that’s why I say it’s not only the coach, it’s the players also, you know, and they want to win it and they’ve shown in the Cup of Nations by being in the semifinals that you are a force to be reckoned with,” Pitso on Bafana’s World Cup chances. 

Bafana edged out Zimbabwe 3-1 on Tuesday night which saw them jump to seven points in Group C. With six matches remaining, the national team might just need four wins to qualify.

Bafana put Zim to the sword in Bloemfontein

Pitso though said Bafana should stay grounded if they are to qualify for the World Cup. The team’s next WC qualifiers are next year in March.

After winning the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations, South Africa became a powerhouse of African football. Every Afcon tournament they played in from 1996 until 2002, they were always among the favorites to win. With players like Lucas Radebe, Benni McCarthy, and Quinton Fortune, Bafana were a top team to beat until the mid-2000s.

Bafana qualified for the 1998 World Cup in France but bowed out in the group stages after two draws and a defeat. After four years, the team returned to the 2002 World Cup, retaining some of their key players from the 1996 Afcon and 1998 World Cup.

A loss to Spain saw Jomo Sono’s side bow out of the tournament by goal difference, but the belief was that Bafana was ready to compete with the big teams. With South Africa given the right to host the 2010 World Cup, Bafana needed to qualify for the 2006 edition to showcase their readiness.

In the 2006 WC qualifiers, 30 teams were divided into five groups of six teams each. Teams in each group would play against each other on a home and away basis. Bafana found themselves alongside Ghana and DR Congo. A 2-1 win against Cape Verde at home raised alarm bells, but Mbulelo Mabizela’s brace was celebrated.

Bafana Bafana lost six points to Ghana in the 2006 World Cup qualifiers

Cracks started to show when Bafana lost 3-0 away to Ghana, leaving the group wide open. Wins against Burkina Faso and Uganda kept Stuart Baxter’s men on top until their second meeting with the Black Stars. At a packed FNB Stadium, Bafana were the favourites to beat Ghana and solidify their World Cup spot, but a Michael Essien masterclass crushed South Africa’s momentum.

Ghana needed a win desperately and played a South African team without McCarthy, Zuma, Fortune, and Buckley. The Black Stars, on the other hand, brought Suley Muntairu, Steven Appiah, and Essien.

With two matches remaining, Bafana still had a good chance to qualify for the World Cup in Germany. They needed to beat Burkina Faso and DR Congo but lost 3-1 to the West Africans before getting held at home by Congo. A disastrous campaign was the beginning of South Africa’s downfall and since then, the nation has failed to qualify for a FIFA World Cup in three attempts. With 30 points to play for, Bafana only collected half.

Black Stars generation of stars embarrassed Bafana at home

Baxter’s team gave away six points to Ghana and then four points to the DRC. That alone was the reason Bafana Bafana failed to show up for the 2006 World Cup which was vital for South Africa.

Fast forward to 2024, Bafana finds themselves in a similar spot. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup up for grabs, Hugo Broos’men have only accumulated seven points from a possible 12. With 18 to play for, Bafana knows they need to avoid defeats and unnecessary draws to earn a ticket to USA and Mexico.

The 1996 Africa Cup of Nations champions are joint top alongside Benin and Rwanda. The good news is that they played Nigeria away and earned a draw. Although Nigeria has struggled thus far in the qualifiers, many expect them to bounce back when the qualifying rounds resume next year.

Bafana’s path to the 2026 World Cup is looking good following their Zimbabwe win and with Lesotho still to come, Hugo Broos’ men should aim for six points. Rwanda have impressed, and surely won’t make life easy for Bafana, but given South Africa is playing at home, they should be strong enough to overcome them.

The trickiest fixture is the away game against Benin. The West African team destroyed Nigeria and should be highly confident given their latest performance.

So, why can Bafana qualify for the 2026 World Cup?

With six matches remaining, anything can still happen, but Nigeria and Zimbabwe’s chances of qualification are looking less likely. Bafana will face Lesotho next in their next round of qualifiers in March next year. After that, they will play Benin, which will be a make-or-break match for Hugo Broos’ team.

How many points will Bafana Bafana need to qualify for their first World Cup since 2002?

Out of a possible 30 points, South Africa needs to get at least 20 points from 10 matches to qualify. So far, they have four, and there are still 18 to play for. Given the strength of teams in Group C, 20 points should be enough if Bafana beats Benin and Nigeria. With six points almost guaranteed against Lesotho, a draw against Rwanda or Zimbabwe won’t hurt their chances.

No calculators needed this time

Bafana’s 2026 World Cup qualification doesn’t need math, just four wins out of the six matches should see them through, as long as they don’t lose or draw against Lesotho and Nigeria.

Speaking to the press, Broos highlighted the bright future of Maswanganyi.

Bright future for Orlando Pirates star

Broos believes that Maswanganyi could pull the strings for the national team from midfield.

His recent efforts for Orlando Pirates have only backed that up.

“So what I saw from him and I think he can be the one for the future [to replace Themba Zwane]” said Hugo Broos according to FARPost.

“I saw him playing on Wednesday [against Cape Town Spurs], and after the game, we talked with Helman [Mkhalele]. But then I saw him playing on Saturday [against Kaizer Chiefs], and he played a very good game.

“This is what I want to see from him in Bafana Bafana, so when he can achieve that level also with us, he can be someone for the future. He can be someone who can replace Themba [Zwane] in the future.”

Broos doesn’t feel that Zwane needs to be replaced right away.

“I don’t think about to replace Themba now. But we have to think: Themba is nearly 35, so he will be 36 or 37 in 2026. When you’re at that age, it can happen [retirement], and then we have to be ready,” he added.

However, he added that he has high hopes for Maswanganyi.

“So let’s hope that he’s [Patrick Maswanganyi] the one and that we solved that problem already for the near future.”

Looking ahead

Broos has said that he is looking to the future with these players.

“Certainly, I am also looking to the future. I said it already, there are a few players in our group who will be 35, 34, 36 when the FIFA World Cup is jointly hosted in Canada, Mexico and the United States of America in 2026,” he told SAFA.net.

“So yes, we have to look for replacements also. Firstly, we have to see those games as an opportunity to give new players, younger players, to show if they are at Bafana Bafana level. Secondly, we are playing against two different styles of opponents. On one side you have Andorra and you can compare them to Namibia. So, a tough team, a team who will wait and try to be dangerous in transition.

“On the other side, you have Algeria, ranked fifth in the CAF rankings. So that means you have two different styles, and it is good for the South African senior men’s team, certainly also to play against Andorra, but certainly to play against such a good team like Algeria.

“They have a new coach, they will have new players also in their selection. So, it will be a good test for those new players who are with us to prove themselves. Therefore, those friendly games are important, and you have to get the results if you want to keep your 10th place or maybe progress even further in the CAF ranking.”

Bafana Bafana face Algeria on Tuesday 26 March.

Hlongwane has been playing his football in the USA for Major League Soccer side Minnesota United FC. 

Hlongwane arrived at Minnesota in January of 2022, signing from then DStv Premiership side Maritzburg United. Interestingly enough, before he put pen to paper with the American side, widespread reports in South Africa were convinced he had signed for champions Mamelodi Sundowns. The player later admitted that there were indeed talks and a deal in place, but opted to further his career abroad at Minnesota.

Hlongwane joined Minnesota in 2022

And what a decision that has proven to be! Since his arrival at the club, Hlongwane has been an instant fan favourite. His performances on the pitch have largely been the reason for that. He is also a dearly loved by the club’s social media platforms. Despite a slow start, where the winger was clearly adjusting to the league, the club remained patient with him. He scored just two goals, while laying five assists, to finish his maiden season with seven goal contributions in 30 games. 

Hlongwane would step it up a notch, in his second season at Minnesota. Again, he played 30 time, scoring eight goals and providing 3 assists. That made for a goal contribution of 11. During this time, he was also a regular at Bafana Bafana level, helping the country qualify for the 2023 Afcon in the Ivory Coast.

Unfortunately an injury slowed down his progressed at the end of the season. That, plus the MLS schedule and his form, eventually cost him a place in the Bafana Bafana set up. Hlongwane is slowly picking himself up though, with five goal contributions in 14 matches so far this season. That form may have gone unnoticed to Hugo Broos, but not to two Turkish teams, according to reports. 

According to transfermakt Turkish giants Besiktas as well as Trabzonspor are interested in signing Hlongwane from Minnesota.

Wanted in Turkey by Besiktas and Trabzonspor

“WANTED IN TURKEY?

News coming out of the Turkish media report that esteemed clubs Trabzonspor and Besiktas are interested in the services of South African winger Bongokuhle Hlongwane of Minnesota United. 

Hlongwane has been a key figure for his MLS club in the last two seasons.” Wrote the website. 

With this being Hlongwane’s third season at Minnesota, it could be the right time to step up and move to Europe. Either Besiktas or Trabzonspor would be good options, which could also save his international career. 

Mofokeng got rewarded for a consistent season at Pirates, by playing the last minutes of the 2026 World Cup qualifier.

Mofokeng gets Bafana Bafana debut

With the score at 3-1, Broos used the opportunity to hand an international debut to Mofokeng. This being just reward for the teenager’s great form in his breakout season at Pirates. Ultimately he was able to at least have a touch the ball, in what was undoubtedly a fulfilling moment and he couldn’t stop smiling. 

Now according to Broos, Mofokeng has captain Ronwen Williams to thank for it!

“The captain (Williams) came and said, ‘Coach, maybe for the last minutes Rele (Mofokeng), what do you think?’. I said, ‘ok, good idea’. Therefore, Rele came in. That shows again how that atmosphere is in this group. I said it already, those are 23 friends. They’re not colleagues. If they can do [something] for someone, they can do it.” Said Broos. 

All thanks to captain Williams!

Broos then also recalled a similar instance where Williams advocated for his goalkeeper competition Veli Mothwa’s chance.

“He (Williams) did it, I think, a year ago with Veli (Mothwa). He came out five minutes before the end, and Veli came in , I think. So now today he came and said, Rele (Mofokeng). That shows again how the atmosphere is and how these guys treat each other.” Concluded Broos as per FARPost. 

Speculation surrounding Mofokeng and his future at Pirates is now set to continue. Last season he was linked with clubs in Europe and even African giants Al Ahly.  He was also on trial at English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers. But now, should the 19-year-old leave for the U.K, it is likely to be for Glasgow Rangers. 

This coming in the dying minutes of  Bafana’s 3-1 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier victory over neighbours Zimbabwe. 

Bafana put Zimbabwe away

On a chilli evening in Bloemfontein, Bafana played their part I trying to warm the fans up. This through an Iqraam Rayners opener, which came in the first 30 seconds of the game. The Stellenbosch FC striker capitalised from a defensive error from the visitors, to slot home. Not to be outdone, Zimbabwe struck back in the very next attack of the game, to level matters, however. 

The second half would see the hosts step it up a notch, and a brace from substitute Thapelo Morena helped. The speedy Mamelodi Sundowns star’s first goals for Bafana proved to be decisive, seeing Hugo Broos’ men rise up to second on the table. They are now on seven points, and are behind Rwanda only on goal difference. Their next qualifier will be against another neighbouring nation in Lesotho in March next year. 

Mofokeng pays tribute to idol Lorch?

With the score at 3-1, Broos used the opportunity to hand an international debut to Mofokeng. This being just reward for the teenager’s great form in his breakout season at Pirates. Ultimately he was able to at least have a touch the ball, in what was undoubtedly a fulfilling moment and he couldn’t stop smiling. 

Mofokeng also seemed to use the opportunity to pay tribute to idol and former Pirates teammate Thembinkosi Lorch. This was through wearing his Buccaneers number three jersey. Now, it isn’t clear nor 100% confirmed, but seeing that the now Sundowns man is also a Free State native it might add up. There are very few other reasons why an attacker would opt for a jersey number used primarily by defenders, left-backs to be more precise. 

The 22-year-old midfielders displayed an outstanding performance against the Warriors on Tuesday evening at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein. Bafana came into the match needing a win after their disappointing draw against Nigeria on Friday.

Appollis and Morena inspired Bafana to a 3-1 win

The home side drew first blood after Iqraam Rayners pounced from a Zimbabwe mistake. A minute later, the Warriors equalised after they caught the Bafana defence napping. With both sides locked on 1-1 at halftime, Hugo Broos made a change, bringing on Morena for Elias Mokwana

Morena and Appollis caused havoc on both flanks with Zimbabwe struggling to contain them. Bafana found the breakthrough nine minutes into the second half when Warriors’ keeper Godfrey Chitsumba made a mistake.

Appollis delivered a cross which the Zim keeper failed to clear allowing Mokwena to take advantage. Broos’ men managed the game from then on and in the 76th minute, Morena scored his second of the match.

Oswin Appollis produced a 40-yard pass to find Morena who rounded off Chitsumba to make it 3-1 to see Bafana home against Zimbabwe. A win sees Bafana top Group C alongside Benin and Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Hugo Broos’ men will only be in action for the qualifiers next year in March. A win puts them four points clear of Nigeria, who has struggled in the qualifiers thus far.

Bafana back to winning ways

After the win, Bafana fans praised them, especially Morena and Appollis. The Mamelodi Sundowns star was awarded Man of the Match following his brace.

@makwande_m wrote: “What a strong performance from Oswin Appollis. The boy held it down.”

@ThulaniNombali wrote: “Oswin Appollis should not be playing for PLK City next season.”

Having been held to a draw by Nigeria a few days ago, the men from the south needed a result.

Bafana Bafana found the opening goal inside the opening 30 seconds of the match after Iqraam Rayners pounced on a mistake from Zimbabwe’s defence. Immediately after the goal, the Warriors responded. A quick throw-in caught Bafana napping allowing Tawanda Chirewa to score for the visitors.

Bafana looked to restore their lead but Zimbabwe looked solid in defence denying the home side clear-cut chances. The Warriors’ keeper Godfrey Chitsumba produced a few quality saves to keep the scores 1-1 going into half-time.

Bafana and Zimbabwe both made changes in the second half looking to go all out for the win. Hugo Broos sacrificed Elias Mokwana for Thapelo Morena as he looked to exploit the Warriors’ right side. The Mamelodi Sundowns right-back made an immediate impact by putting the away side under pressure. Having just been on the pitch for nine minutes, Morena slotted home from close range after Chitsumba made an error.

Bafana buries Zimbabwe to top the WC group

Bafana’s Oswin Appollis delivered a cross which the Zim keeper failed to clear allowing Mokwena to take advantage. Broos’ men managed the game from then on and in the 76th minute, Morena scored his second of the match.

Oswin Appollis produced a 40-yard pass to find Morena who rounded off Chitsumba to make it 3-1 to see Bafana home against Zimbabwe.

Thapelo Morena scores a brace in WC qualifier match

South Africa top Group C alongside Benin and Rwanda. Zimbabwe are bottom of the group after another defeat while Bafana are joint first with two wins from four, matches.

The team will take on Zimbabwe in their next 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Free Stat Stadium on Tuesday, 11 June.

Kick-off is at 18:00.

Coach Hugo Broos briefly took time to share the team’s experience on the road. 

“I believe in my team, and I believe they can (perform). If we play the game the way we did on Friday (against Nigeria), taking travel into consideration, then I believe a win is possible against Zimbabwe,” said Broos.

Broos was complimentary of the group of players that have come together, eager to fight for their places in the team that is bidding to qualify for the next edition of the FIFA World Cup.

He was pleased that despite the challenges, they kept their focus and stuck to the plan.

Bafana Bafana vs Zimbabwe tickets still available

Defender Given Msimango said Bafana Bafana did what they needed to do against the West Africans in Friday’s World Cup qualifier. “The travel was tough, yes, but the game was going to go ahead anyway, so we kept our focus. We all did! It’s about the football at the end of the day.”

When Msimango was asked how he felt when the call-up came for him to join the team after Grant Kekana had to be withdrawn due to injury, he could not stop smiling.

“I was on vacation with my wife, and we had to cut that short. I’m happy to be here, honoured to play and I will give it my best.”

The team enjoyed their training session on Monday and are excited to play in front of the fans of ‘The City of Roses’ in what is going to be a match that will be remembered for a long time.

Tickets for the encounter are still available at the match venue.

The gates will open at 15:00 and the tickets are priced at R50 for adults.

Kids, scholars and students will pay R20 (school uniform and student cards required for over 12-year-olds).

Tickets are also available at TicketPro outlets, Spar, SuperSpar, Putco, Postnet etc.

QUALIFYING HAS CHANGED

Bafana Bafana and Zimbabwe have been drawn in Group C along with Nigeria, Rwanda, Lesotho and Benin.

The CAF qualification structure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has changed from previous years.

A record nine African teams will qualify for the 2026 World Cup – and a 10th is a possibility.

All 54 FIFA-affiliated football associations from CAF entered qualification.

Teams were drawn into nine groups of six teams to play home-and-away round-robin matches.

However, Eritrea withdrew before matches began, leaving five teams in Group E.

The winner of each of the nine groups will qualify for the World Cup.

In addition, the four best-ranked group runners-up will participate in a playoff to determine which team will advance to the inter-confederation play-offs.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Heading into the match in Bloemfontein, Bafana Bafana are in fourth place with four points after three (of 10) qualifiers, Zimbabwe are sixth and last with two points from their three matches played to date.

LATEST GROUP C STANDINGS

Tau has continued to be a polarising figure for many Bafana fans, who have at times grown frustrated with his inability to live up to admittedly high expectations.

The playmaker endured a rather disappointing Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) campaign earlier this year, and came in for plenty of criticism. That was once again the case after a low-key performance recently in a qualifier against Nigeria, but Tau has continued to receive the backing of Broos.

“People expect too much from Percy. I was happy with his performance against Nigeria. Also at the Afcon, he did his job. But he was not what everybody expected, the guy who is going to give us the victory,” said Broos. 

“The only thing that is important, and I hope he feels that, is he has all my confidence. That’s most important because it’s not easy when they kill you on social media.

“It’s the worst thing in the world to say what you want about somebody. This is disgusting sometimes. I hope that’s what he feels from the group and the technical staff and I hope it will be enough for Percy.

“I don’t understand what happens [with public opinion] with Percy Tau.”

Percy Tau will hope to prove a point when Bafana face Zimbabwe

The South African senior men’s team have had a bit of time to catch their breath in Bloemfontein after a taxing travelling schedule to and from Nigeria a few days ago

“I believe in my team, and I believe they can (perform). If we play the game the way we did on Friday (against Nigeria), taking travel into consideration, then I believe a win is possible against Zimbabwe,” said Broos

“The travel was tough, yes, but the game was going to go ahead anyway, so we kept our focus. We all did! It’s about the football at the end of the day,” he said

When Msimango was asked how he felt when the call-up came for him to join the team after Grant Kekana had to be withdrawn due to injury, he could not stop smiling. “I was on vacation with my wife, and we had to cut that short. I’m happy to be here, honoured to play and I will give it my best.”

QUALIFYING HAS CHANGED

Bafana Bafana and Zimbabwe have been drawn in Group C along with Nigeria, Rwanda, Lesotho and Benin.

The CAF qualification structure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has changed from previous years. A record nine African teams will qualify for the 2026 World Cup – and a 10th is a possibility.

All 54 FIFA-affiliated football associations from CAF entered qualification. Teams were drawn into nine groups of six teams to play home-and-away round-robin matches.

The winner of each of the nine groups will qualify for the World Cup.

In addition, the four best-ranked group runners-up will participate in a playoff to determine which team will advance to the inter-confederation play-offs.

Bafana Bafana face Zimbabwe in WCQ action

South Africa hosts Zimbabwe in matchday four of World Cup qualifying looking to claim three priceless points at Free State Stadium. Bafana played out a 1-1 draw with Nigeria’s Super Eagles last time out, taking their points tally in qualifying to four. Group C is congested and currently led by surprise packages Benin. Hugo Broos’ side beat Benin on matchday 1 but have struggled in subsequent matches. Bafana vs Zimbabwe kicks off at 18:00 on Tuesday 11 June and will be televised live on SABC 2.

Striking dilemmas?

The major talking point after Hugo Broos named his 23-man squad for crunch World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe was the omission of Tshegofatso Mabasa. The Orlando Pirates man scored 16 goals in the DStv Premiership and won the Golden Boot. Broos preferred his clubmate Evidence Makgopa in the preliminary group, and that was also the case in Pirates’ recent Nedbank Cup final win over Sundowns. Bucs head coach Jose Riveiro opted for the most physical, channel-running approach of Makgopa. It paid dividends. 23-year-old Makgopa was a key component of the Bafana side which won bronze at Afcon 2023. However, he hasn’t made the final squad here. Bafana’s attackers are Themba Zwane, Iqraam Rayners, Percy Tau, Oswin Appollis, Elias Mokwana, Relebohile Mofokeng, Patrick Maswanganyi and Lyle Foster.

Bafana outcast set for Middle East move?

According to Soccer-Laduma, Middle Eastern clubs are interested in 27-year-old Tshegofatso Mabasa. He’s fresh off a Golden Boot winning season after bagging 16 goals in the league.

“Given Mabasa’s rich goal-scoring form this season, it is no surprise that he is the subject of widespread interest, particularly from Saudi Arabia. According to well-placed Siya sources, enquiries have been pouring in for the striker from the Gulf Region and from a few leagues in Europe. The Buccaneers face an uphill battle in holding onto their star man, as he continues to garner interest. The next few weeks ought to be interesting for Mabasa in terms of his future and where he will be playing his football next season,” wrote the publication. 

Can Bafana land a crucial win over Zimbabwe this evening?

Have your say in the comments below, email info@thesouthafrican.com or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

Meanwhile, you can follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest DStv Premiership news.

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Ghana were another side to stage a fightback, defeating the Central African Republic 4-3 after trailing at half-time with Crystal Palace forward Jordan Ayew claiming a hat-trick.

Success was particularly sweet for Benin coach Gernot Rohr, the 70-year-old German sacked by Nigeria in 2021 after five years in charge.

The victory lifted Benin, 67 places below Nigeria in the world rankings, to the top of Group C with seven points, two more than Lesotho.

Nigeria, six-time qualifiers for the World Cup and runners-up to hosts the Ivory Coast in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, were expected to dominate the six-team section with South Africa.

But after three draws and a loss they lie fifth with just three points. Only Zimbabwe are beneath the Super Eagles.

Bafana’s next 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe

The defeat by Benin puts pressure on Nigeria coach Finidi George, who took over the reins when Portuguese boss Jose Pereira quit in February after the Cup of Nations.

Former Nigeria star George has won only one of four competitive and friendly matches, and losing to neighbours Benin is sure to trigger criticism.

Benin, disadvantaged by having to play in Ivorian commercial capital Abidjan because they do not have a FIFA-approved stadium, fell behind after 27 minutes.

A long pass was transferred by Samuel Chukwueze to Raphael Onyedika, who bagged his first goal for Nigeria with a fierce shot.

Unperturbed, Benin hit back with goals from Jodel Dossou and captain Steve Mounie before half-time to take a lead they retained till the end.

Dossou burst forward to beat goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and Mounie celebrated his 50th cap by slamming the ball into the net after a corner was not cleared.

Benin top the table with have seven points, Lesotho have five, Rwanda and South Africa four each, Nigeria three and Zimbabwe two.

Lesotho, forced to stage home matches in South Africa as they lack an international-standard stadium, host Rwanda and South Africa play Zimbabwe in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, 11 June.

LATEST GROUP C STANDINGS

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Maropene Ramokgopa, one of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s most trusted allies, has been chosen as the acting sports minister to fill the vacancy left by Zizi Kodwa after the latter’s sensational resignation last week.

Kodwa appeared in the Palm Ridge Specialised Crime Court in Johannesburg over corruption charges.

He, along with co-accused Jehan Mackay, were later released on R30 000 bail each.

Bafana Bafana vs Zimbabwe in Bloemfontein

Bafana Bafana will face Zimbabwe at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, 11 June.

“This will be the first time Bafana Bafana plays an international match in Bloemfontein since their victory against France in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Football supporters in the Free State are famous for their passionate support during matches.

“I welcome the return of international football to the Free State and call on South Africans to fill up Free State Stadium and get behind Bafana Bafana, as our national team continues its march to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” the minister said on Monday. 

Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00.

Tickets for the encounter are still available at the match venue.

The gates will open at 15:00 and tickets are priced at R50 for adults.

Kids, scholars and students will pay R20 (school uniform and student cards are required for over 12-year-olds).

Tickets are also available at TicketPro outlets, Spar, SuperSpar, Putco, Postnet etc.

CHANGE IN QUALIFICATION

The CAF qualification structure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has changed from previous years.

A record nine teams will qualify for the 2026 World Cup – and a 10th is a possibility.

All 54 FIFA-affiliated football associations from CAF entered qualification.

Teams were drawn into nine groups of six teams to play home-and-away round-robin matches.

However, Eritrea withdrew before matches began, leaving five teams in Group E.

The winner of each of the nine groups will qualify for the World Cup.

In addition, the four best-ranked group runners-up will participate in a playoff to determine which team will advance to the inter-confederation play-offs.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

LATEST GROUP C STANDINGS

The 30-year-old Al Ahly star has been poor for the national team for over a year with fans asking for Hugo Broos to drop him from the Bafana team. Tau’s dip was highlighted earlier this year during the Africa Cup of Nations where he scored just one goal.

Pitso Mosimane has coached Tau at Mamelodi Sundowns for over five years and believes the striker is still the best player in the national team.

“Who has the medals that Percy has? So what is this talk of criticising him? How do you criticise someone that nobody [in South Africa] can match him? How do we criticise that? Someone must say I’ve been to the FIFA Club World Cup three times, like Percy,” he said.

“Who [can compete with Percy for accolades]? I have a bronze medal? Show us! Being the third-best team in the world, show us that, win the Champions League, and go to three Champions League finals in a row,” Mosimane was quoted on iDiski Times.

Pitso Mosimane defends his former player Percy Tau

“I mean how do you criticise our best player? Everyone is being criticised, Lyle Foster, they criticise him, Pienaar was my captain [in Bafana] they criticised him, Benni was criticised.

“So anyway, there’s criticism everywhere so you have to do something. If you don’t do anything, they will still criticise you for doing nothing.”

Pitso still backing Al Ahly star

Tau received criticism during Bafana’s draw with Nigeria on Friday but Pitso Mosimane believes the striker is still a top player.

After a 1-1 draw with Nigeria, Bafana are set to face Zimbabwe in Bloemfontein on Tuesday afternoon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

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It was a tense showdown between the two long-time foes, but coach Hugo Broos’ charges rose to the challenge and took the fight to their West African hosts from the opening whistle.

Bafana Bafana next face Zimbabwe

After one of their longest trips to Nigeria, spanning more than 30 hours, Bafana Bafana will feel they could have won the match.

Bafana Bafana opened the scoring through midfielder Themba Zwane in the 29th minute after a delicious pass from Yaya Sithole.

However, Nigeria equalised through Faruq Dele-Bashiru soon after the restart to put the Super Eagles back in the game.

Bafana Bafana put their bodies on the line to keep Nigeria at bay, and also try to find the goal that would have given them a victory away from home.

Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams pulled off a series of stunning saves to ensure that the South African senior men’s national team will return home with a point from what was their third (of 10) Group C qualifiers.

Bafana Bafana face Zimbabwe in their next World Cup qualifier in a match that is to be played at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, 11 June.

Kick-off is at 18:00.

Tickets for this encounter are still available at the match venue.

The gates will open at 15:00 and tickets are priced at R50 for adults.

Kids, scholars and students will pay R20 (school uniform and student cards are required for over 12-year-olds).

Tickets are also available at TicketPro outlets, Spar, SuperSpar, Putco, Postnet etc.

Change in qualification

The CAF qualification structure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has changed from previous years.

A record nine teams will qualify for the 2026 World Cup – and a 10th is a possibility.

All 54 FIFA-affiliated football associations from CAF entered qualification.

Teams were drawn into nine groups of six teams to play home-and-away round-robin matches.

However, Eritrea withdrew before matches began, leaving five teams in Group E.

The winner of each of the nine groups will qualify for the World Cup.

In addition, the four best-ranked group runners-up will participate in a playoff to determine which team will advance to the inter-confederation play-offs.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

LATEST GROUP C STANDINGS

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The all-important clash at the Godswill Akpabio stadium in Uyo will kick off at 21:00 (SA time).

Coach Hugo Broos’ charges arrived in Uyo, Nigeria, just after 11:00 local time on Thursday after the initial charter flight out of Johannesburg was delayed by four hours on Wednesday.

After eventually leaving OR Tambo International Airport, the team had to stay over in Port Harcourt, but despite the long hours of travel, they are  determined to tackle the task at hand.

‘We know what it’s like traveling and playing’ – Percy Tau

“We are more focused than ever. Traveling in Africa is difficult, so that is not our focus. We are focused on the job at hand and that is the game against Nigeria,” said Broos at a press conference held at the Godswill Akpabio stadium.

Local media seemed more focused on the team’s injuries than the game itself, making sure they had as much information on every injury concern in the Bafana camp.

“We will see about Mudau, there is much talk about him and other injuries. Obviously, the (Nigeria) dangerman is Ademola Lookman, then there is Victor Osimhen, who is doubtful, but we are not focusing on that. We are focusing on our game, we have the ability and we have proven that at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire,” laughed Broos.

Striker Percy Tau suggested that out of the group in Uyo, anyone that plays on Friday night has the resilience as well as the experience to rise to the occasion.

“We play in CAF, so we know what it’s like traveling and playing. It is never easy, but we are professionals, we are ready, and we are hungry to play. This is all that we are here for.”

Qualifying has changed

Bafana Bafana and Nigeria have been drawn in Group C along with Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Lesotho and Benin.

After two rounds of matches, Bafana Bafana lie in second place with three points having beaten Benin 2-1 at home and lost 2-0 to Rwanda in the Central African country.

Nigeria sit in third place after 1-1 draws against Zimbabwe and Lesotho.

The CAF qualification structure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has changed from previous years.

A record nine teams will qualify for the 2026 World Cup – and a 10th is a possibility.

All 54 FIFA-affiliated football associations from CAF entered qualification.

Teams were drawn into nine groups of six teams to play home-and-away round-robin matches.

However, Eritrea withdrew before matches began, leaving five teams in Group E.

The winner of each of the nine groups will qualify for the World Cup.

In addition, the four best-ranked group runners-up will participate in a playoff to determine which team will advance to the inter-confederation play-offs.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here!

The match in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, 11 June will kick off at 18:00. 

The Free State Stadium manager said: “Ticket sales have opened, and they are available at Gate 5. It is normal stand tickets as well as suite tickets and hospitality tickets. We are open on Saturday, Sunday, Monday and on matchday itself on Tuesday. The ticket office opens at 08:30 until 16:30.”

Bafana Bafana last played in Bloemfontein in 2010

A mobilisation campaign in partnership with the Mangaung Metro and the Free State Sports Arts Culture and Recreation will be joined by Siwelele supporters, starting on Friday, 7 June.

The gates will open at 15:00 and the tickets are priced at R50 for adults.

Kids, scholars and students will pay R20 (school uniform and student cards required for over 12-year-olds).

Tickets are also available at TicketPro outlets, Spar, SuperSpar, Putco, Postnet etc.

Hospitality tickets are available from the stadium and they are priced at R1 500 and R2 000 packages, including food and drinks.

Bafana Bafana will return to Bloemfontein for the first time since the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

They last played in the city when they beat France 2-1 in the global FIFA tournament 14 years ago.

The 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier between Bafana Bafana and the Super Eagles will be played at Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday evening.

“We want to have a good result against Nigeria because this is a qualifier for the World Cup and we don’t think about revenge,” Hugo Broos said as per Times Live.

“Losing the game should not be a disaster because after that we still have six games to play. But I would rather not have a defeat to Nigeria. 

“We know all about them but they also know all about us. I think they will not start the game with the same mentality they had at Afcon because they know how strong we are,” he added.

Hugo Broos plays down expectations ahead of Nigeria clash

“We have to use our status of being the team that finished third at Afcon but at the same time we must stay humble. We still have to work, fight and produce the same mentality we showed at Afcon.”

Hugo Broos’ side lost to Nigeria at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations. After the semi-final match ended 1-1, the Super Eagles went on to win 4-2 on penalties. Bafana’s preparation for the Nigeria match were hampered after the team spent more than 18 hours on the road.

Bafana Bafana meet Nigeria in a World Cup qualifier match on Friday

Hugo Broos said on Thursday that his team were focused on the Nigeria match despite hiccups.

“We are more focused than ever. Travelling in Africa is difficult, so that is not our focus. We are focused on the job at hand and that is the game against Nigeria,” he said in a press conference.

Bafana Bafana meet Nigeria in a crunch World Cup qualifier

South Africa and the Super Eagles will clash on Friday 07 June in Uyo, Nigeria with kickoff at 21:00. Bafana have three points heading into this MD3 qualifier after a defeat to Rwanda and a win over Benin.

Strange striking decisions

The major talking point after Hugo Broos named his 23-man squad for crunch World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria (07 June) and Zimbabwe (11 June) was the omission of Tshegofatso Mabasa. The Orlando Pirates man scored 16 goals in the DStv Premiership and won the Golden Boot. Broos preferred his clubmate Evidence Makgopa in the preliminary group, and that was also the case in Pirates’ recent Nedbank Cup final win over Sundowns. Bucs head coach Jose Riveiro opted for the most physical, channel-running approach of Makgopa. It paid dividends. 23-year-old Makgopa was a key component of the Bafana side which won bronze at Afcon 2023. However, he hasn’t made the final squad here. Bafana’s attackers are Themba Zwane, Iqraam Rayners, Percy Tau, Oswin Appollis, Elias Mokwana, Relebohile Mofokeng, Patrick Maswanganyi and Lyle Foster.

Bafana boss sends warning to Relebohile Mofokeng

The hype train around 19-year-old Relebohile Mofokeng has gone into overdrive this week after his winning goal in the Nedbank Cup final against Sundowns. The teenager is also set for his national team debut against Nigeria. Hugo Broos has urged calm.

“You see what happened with Mailula? He came into Toronto, and there were two former Italian internationals, and what are you going to do with a little guy from South Africa there? He did play one game two months ago and the rest he’s on the bench. What is he learning there? I hope the agent of Mofokeng is cleaver more than the one of Mailula.” said Broos as per FARPost.

Draw specialists

South Africa have drawn their last five matches (inside 90 minutes and including friendlies) and that also stretches to six of their last seven. Broos has turned this team into a tough nut to crack, but old issues of failing to put games away are still plaguing them.

Squad reminder

In case you missed it, here’s the 23-man group tackling two key World Cup qualifiers.

Will Bafana exact revenge against Nigeria?

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By Wednesday evening, the squad had been on the road for 18 hours and were still not in Uyo. It was stated that the Uyo airport had closed by the time the team was scheduled to take off. After the news broke that Bafana were stranded at the airport, many fans speculated that this was Nigeria’s plan to unsettle the South African national team.

In a statement, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) denied any involvement. “The problem has nothing to do with the NFF. As at the time they said they were taking off, it took them a further five hours to actually depart from South Africa. We were not informed. We had informed officials of the Nigeria Immigration Service and other relevant agencies in Lagos to expedite action on the formalities for them,” the federation said as per NFF’s official website.

Nigeria and Bafana Bafana meet once again

“It was less than two hours to landing that they contacted us to say that the landing right they got was for Port Harcourt International Airport and not the MMA in Lagos. We had to quickly get in touch with officials of NMS and other agencies in Port Harcourt and mobilize people to ensure smooth formalities for them.”

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos said the team was focus on Nigeria and not other things beyond their control.

“We are more focused than ever. Travelling in Africa is difficult, so that is not our focus. We are focused on the job at hand and that is the game against Nigeria,” said Broos.

Ahead of Friday’s match, the team has had several injury concerns with defender Grant Kekana ruled out.

“We will see about (Khuliso)Mudau, there is much talk about him and other injuries. Obviously, the (Nigeria) dangerman is Ademola Lookman, then there is Victor Osimhen, who is doubtful, but we are not focusing on that,” said the Bafana coach.

“We are focusing on our game tomorrow, we have the ability and we have proven that at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire,” laughed Broos.

Bafana and Nigeria battle each other in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at Godswill Akpabio Stadium. The Match kicks off at 21:00 on Friday.

Bafana Bafana are in Nigeria for their third FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier.

Coach Hugo Broos’ charges arrived in Uyo, Nigeria, just after 11:00 local time on Thursday after the initial charter flight out of Johannesburg was delayed by four hours on Wednesday.

Bafana Bafana determined to tackle the task at hand

After eventually leaving OR Tambo International Airport, the team had to stay over in Port Harcourt, but despite the long hours of travel, they are  determined to tackle the task at hand.

“We are more focused than ever. Traveling in Africa is difficult, so that is not our focus. We are focused on the job at hand and that is the game against Nigeria,” said Broos at a press conference held at the Godswill Akpabio stadium.

Local media seemed more focused on the team’s injuries than the game itself, making sure they had as much information on every injury concern in the Bafana camp.

“We will see about Mudau, there is much talk about him and other injuries. Obviously, the (Nigeria) dangerman is Ademola Lookman, then there is Victor Osimhen, who is doubtful, but we are not focusing on that. We are focusing on our game, we have the ability and we have proven that at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire,” laughed Broos.

Striker Percy Tau suggested that out of the group in Uyo, anyone that plays on Friday night has the resilience as well as the experience to rise to the occasion.

“We play in CAF, so we know what it’s like traveling and playing. It is never easy, but we are professionals, we are ready, and we are hungry to play. This is all that we are here for.”

The match is scheduled for 21:00 (SA time) at the Godswill Akpabio stadium.

Qualifying has changed

Bafana Bafana and Nigeria have been drawn in Group C along with Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Lesotho and Benin.

After two rounds of matches, Bafana Bafana lie in second place with three points having beaten Benin 2-1 at home and lost 2-0 to Rwanda in the Central African country.

Nigeria sit in third place after 1-1 draws against Zimbabwe and Lesotho.

The CAF qualification structure for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has changed from previous years.

A record nine teams will qualify for the 2026 World Cup – and a 10th is a possibility.

All 54 FIFA-affiliated football associations from CAF entered qualification.

Teams were drawn into nine groups of six teams to play home-and-away round-robin matches.

However, Eritrea withdrew before matches began, leaving five teams in Group E.

The winner of each of the nine groups will qualify for the World Cup.

In addition, the four best-ranked group runners-up will participate in a playoff to determine which team will advance to the inter-confederation play-offs.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Born in Athens, Greece, Koumantarakis grew up in Durban and played for AmaZulu in his teenage years. He later left AmaZulu to join Manning Rangers, where he became a club legend. The tall striker scored 49 goals in 89 matches during his four years with Rangers.

In 1998, George Koumantarakis signed with the Swiss team FC Luzern and successfully debuted in the European season. He impressed FC Basel and joined their first team for the 1999–2000 season under new head coach Christian Gross. Koumantarakis spent three and a half seasons with Basel, playing 130 games and scoring 51 goals.

His last two seasons at Basel were the best of his career, during which he won national titles and played in the Champions League in the 2002–03 season. Basel reached the final group phase of the competition that year.

George Koumantarakis played 13 matches for Bafana

Koumantarakis moved to England to sign for Championship team Preston North End in January 2003. However, he failed to live up to expectations as he got injured on international duty. He then left Preston for German club Rot-Weiß Erfurt in the 2004–05 season, but his time there was plagued by injury, and he only played a handful of games. Due to his persistent knee injury, the tall striker retired from football at just 32.

For Bafana, George Koumantarakis earned 13 caps scoring just one goal. He was a noticeable inclusion in the national team during the 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan. Post-retirement, the former Bafana forward has found joy in a completely new sport. George Koumantarakis is a qualified lawyer and currently serves as a director at Logan Golf.

Former Bafana striker a qualified lawyer and a businessman

Despite being one of the board of directors, the father of three is also a businessman, developer and investor.

Bafana plays the Super Eagles in Uyo on Friday in a FIFA World Cup qualifier match. Coach of the South African football national team Hugo Broos has expressed concern about a number of injuries. Grant Kekana was ruled out of the clash after sustaining an injury against Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final on Saturday.

Broos said four other Sundowns players came into the Bafana camp with niggles.

“Those four players have little problems but will be ready for [the Nigeria game]. It’s amazing that from the six injuries, it’s six players of the same team, Sundowns, they had many injuries this season,” he said.

“Everybody knows, one of the reasons is certainly the overloaded program. They played a lot of games, but what is interesting is that 75% of the injuries are groin and hamstring injuries, and I think it has to be something more than [too many] games.

Sundowns players are a concern for Bafana Bafana

“I hope that the medical staff of Sundowns can find the reason for that because next season it will be exactly the same, they will have the same overloaded program, playing PSL, MTN8, Champions League, there’s even Club World Cup at the end of the season,” the Bafana coach said as per iDiski Times.

Broos has selected a total of nine Sundowns players in his Bafana squad to play Nigeria and Zimbabwe. The team will travel to Uyo, Nigeria to face the Super Eagles before hosting Zimbabwe on Tuesday. Bafana currently sit second in group C.

Bafana and Nigeria face-off once again

Four Bafana and Sundowns players; Aubrey Modiba, Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas and Ronwen Williams are recovering from separate niggles. Khuliso Mudau appeared to have suffered a shoulder injury in the final but is still in camp and could be fit for Friday’s match.

Mothiba could move to Sundowns with Kaizer Chiefs lurking

The Citizen reported that Mamelodi Sundowns are at the head of the queue to sign 28-year-old Bafana Bafana striker Lebo Mothiba and they’ve already held initial talks. He’s a free agent after leaving Ligue 1 outfit Strasbourg after six years in the Northeast of France. Kaizer Chiefs have also been credited with an interest. Mothiba is back in the country after ending his spell with Strasbourg which was punctuated by long-term injuries, the latest of which sadly saw him miss Afcon. Sundowns want a long-term replacement for Peter Shalulile who’s been below his best this term. Signing Mothiba would represent a certain level of risk, given his injury record, but that can be mitigated by the fact that there’d be no transfer fee involved.

A return home?

Mothiba was a Sundowns junior before embarking on his French adventure in 2014 where he turned out for Lille, Valenciennes, Troyes and Strasbourg. The 2023-2024 campaign wasn’t one to remember, however, as he made just 15 league appearances and scored three goals. Overall his numbers in France are solid; he scored 39 goals and supplied nine assists in 160 senior appearances with four clubs. Mothiba also has a healthy strike rate for Bafana Bafana with four goals in 14 caps. He also has the unique distinction of being the only player in South African history to score in three successive matches starting with their international debut.

Strasbourg president Marc Keller was effusive in his praise for Mothiba after news of his exit:

“I would like to thank Lebo for the six seasons he spent with us,” Keller told the club’s official website.

“He is a very good striker who scored important goals …. but he is also a man with an impeccable state of mind, who has always given everything for the club. He never gave up, even after his major injuries.”

BAFANA BAFANA BOSS ISSUES WARNING TO MOFOKENG

The hype train around 19-year-old Relebohile Mofokeng has gone into overdrive this week after his winning goal in the Nedbank Cup final against Sundowns. The teenager is also set for his Bafana Bafana debut against Nigeria next weekend, but national team coach Hugo Broos has urged calm.

“You see what happened with Mailula? He came into Toronto, and there were two former Italian internationals, and what are you going to do with a little guy from South Africa there? He did play one game two months ago and the rest he’s on the bench. What is he learning there? I hope the agent of Mofokeng is cleaver more than the one of Mailula.” said Broos as per FARPost.

Where do you think Mothiba should go to continue his career?

Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com. You can also send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

Meanwhile, you can follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest DStv Premiership news.