A new chapter has officially begun for Bafana Bafana as newly appointed head coach Pitso Mosimane has announced his first squad since returning to the national team.
Mosimane, affectionately known as “Jingles”, has wasted little time putting his plans into motion following the departure of Hugo Broos. His first assignment will be to guide South Africa through a demanding run of fixtures as preparations begin for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
South Africa will open its campaign with a home clash against Guinea on September 26, before travelling to face Eritrea on September 30. Bafana Bafana will then round off the international window with a high-profile friendly against Egypt in Cairo on October 4.
📋 Mosimane Blends Experience With Fresh Talent
Mosimane has selected a squad that combines established international figures with emerging talent, providing a mixture of experience and youthful energy as he begins his second spell in charge of the national team.
The squad includes several players who were part of South Africa’s recent World Cup cycle, while a number of younger players have also been handed an opportunity to stake their claim.
🇿🇦 The Full Bafana Bafana Squad
Goalkeepers
- Ronwen Williams — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Sipho Chaine — Orlando Pirates
- Ricardo Goss — Mamelodi Sundowns
Defenders
- Aubrey Modiba — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Fawaaz Basadien — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Thapelo Morena — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Thabang Matuludi — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Khulumani Ndamane — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Nkosinathi Sibisi — Orlando Pirates
- Lebone Seema — Orlando Pirates
- Kamogelo Sebelebele — Orlando Pirates
- Olwethu Makhanya — Rangers
- Ime Okon — Hannover 96
- Samukele Kabini — Molde
Midfielders
- Teboho Mokoena — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Bathusi Aubaas — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Lebohang Maboe — Kaizer Chiefs
- Sphephelo Sithole — CD Tondela
- Brooklyn Poggenpoel — Durban City
Forwards & Wingers
- Themba Zwane — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Iqraam Rayners — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Cassius Mailula — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Tashreeq Matthews — Mamelodi Sundowns
- Thapelo Maseko — FC Copenhagen
- Oswin Appollis — Orlando Pirates
- Yanela Mbuthuma — Orlando Pirates
- Relebohile Mofokeng — Royale Union Saint-Gilloise
- Shandre Campbell — KV Kortrijk
- Luther Singh — AEL Limassol
- Puso Dithejane — Chicago Fire
⚠️ Injuries and Notable Absences
Mosimane’s first selection has also been shaped by injuries, with several players who featured prominently during the previous national-team cycle unavailable for selection after picking up setbacks at club level.
The absences have provided an opportunity for other players to step into the squad and compete for places as Mosimane begins assessing his options.
The balance between experienced internationals and emerging talent could prove important as Bafana Bafana navigate a demanding opening stretch under their new coach.
⚽ What Can Bafana Bafana Expect Under Mosimane?
Mosimane returns to the national team with extensive experience at the highest level of African football. His coaching career includes success in continental competition, while his previous tenure with Bafana Bafana established him as one of the country’s most recognised coaches.
The 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign will provide Mosimane with his first competitive opportunity to implement his ideas and establish his preferred tactical approach.
The coach has also stressed the importance of unity within the national team, with players from different clubs and backgrounds coming together under one national identity.
🔥 A New Chapter for Bafana Bafana
With the first squad now confirmed, attention turns to the training camp and preparations for the opening fixtures.
The matches against Guinea and Eritrea will provide an early indication of Mosimane’s plans, while the encounter with Egypt will offer another valuable test against one of Africa’s most established football nations.
For Bafana Bafana supporters, the return of Mosimane marks the beginning of a new era, with the national team now preparing to embark on another journey towards continental success.
Follow Our Soccer Updates for live Bafana Bafana match updates, team news, tactical analysis and post-match reaction throughout the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.
