The Pitso Mosimane era has officially begun, and the new Bafana Bafana head coach has wasted no time making his mark.

Following his return to the national team setup after Hugo Broos’ departure, Mosimane has unveiled his first preliminary squad as South Africa prepares for a crucial international window featuring the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, as well as a high-profile friendly encounter against Egypt.

The 35-man selection provides an early glimpse into Mosimane’s vision for the future of Bafana Bafana. The decorated coach has chosen a balanced approach, combining the experience of established national team figures with exciting new talent eager to prove themselves on the international stage.

1. Preserving the World Cup Foundation

One of the biggest talking points from Mosimane’s first squad is his decision to maintain the core structure built under former coach Hugo Broos.

Rather than making sweeping changes, the new Bafana mentor has kept faith with several players who played important roles during South Africa’s recent international campaigns.

Captain Ronwen Williams remains the leader between the posts, joined by Sipho Chaine and Ricardo Goss in the goalkeeping department.

The squad also continues to feature experienced campaigners such as Teboho Mokoena, Aubrey Modiba, Thapelo Morena and veteran midfielder Themba Zwane.

Keeping this strong foundation intact gives Mosimane a stable platform as he begins implementing his tactical ideas and philosophy.

2. Big Names Return and Overseas Talent Adds Firepower

While continuity remains a key theme, Mosimane has also introduced fresh energy through several exciting inclusions.

The return of overseas-based players adds international experience and attacking quality to the squad. Lyle Foster, currently with Houston Dynamo in the United States, brings his physical presence and Premier League experience, while Luther Singh and Puso Dithejane provide attacking options from abroad.

Other international-based stars, including Relebohile Mofokeng, Thapelo Maseko, Shandre Campbell and Sphephelo Sithole, underline the growing presence of South African talent competing outside the country.

Their inclusion highlights Mosimane’s intention to build a squad capable of competing both on the African continent and globally.

3. Betway Premiership Stars and Emerging Talent Get Their Opportunity

The preliminary squad also rewards some of the best performers from the domestic game.

Players from the Betway Premiership continue to dominate the selection, with champions and traditional powerhouses providing the backbone of the team.

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Fawaaz Basadien is among the exciting names pushing for a first opportunity at international level, while Orlando Pirates youngster Cemran Dansin and Golden Arrows forward Ronaldo van Neel have earned recognition after impressive performances.

These selections show Mosimane’s willingness to look beyond established names and give emerging players a pathway into the national team.

The Full 35-Man Bafana Bafana Preliminary Squad

Goalkeepers

• Ronwen Williams – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Sipho Chaine – Orlando Pirates FC
• Ricardo Goss – Mamelodi Sundowns FC

Defenders

• Aubrey Modiba – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Samukele Kabini – Molde FK (Norway)
• Fawaaz Basadien – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Kamogelo Sebelebele – Orlando Pirates FC
• Thapelo Morena – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Thabang Matuludi – Polokwane City FC
• Olwethu Makhanya – Rangers FC (Scotland)
• Khulumani Ndamane – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Ime Okon – Hannover 96 (Germany)
• Lebone Seema – Orlando Pirates FC
• Nkosinathi Sibisi – Orlando Pirates FC
• Tshepo Mashiloane – Sekhukhune United FC

Midfielders

• Teboho Mokoena – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Lebohang Maboe – Kaizer Chiefs FC
• Cemran Dansin – Orlando Pirates FC
• Sphephelo Sithole – CD Tondela (Portugal)
• Bathusi Aubaas – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Brooklyn Poggenpoel – Durban City FC
• Tashreeq Matthews – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Relebohile Mofokeng – Royale Union Saint-Gilloise (Belgium)
• Themba Zwane – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Ronaldo van Neel – Golden Arrows FC
• Thapelo Maseko – FC Copenhagen (Denmark)
• Tshepang Moremi – Orlando Pirates FC

Forwards

• Iqraam Rayners – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Yanela Mbuthuma – Orlando Pirates FC
• Lyle Foster – Houston Dynamo (USA)
• Cassius Mailula – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
• Oswin Appollis – Orlando Pirates FC
• Puso Dithejane – Chicago Fire (USA)
• Luther Singh – AEL Limassol (Cyprus)
• Shandre Campbell – KV Kortrijk (Belgium)

A New Chapter Begins for Bafana Bafana

Bafana Bafana will soon regroup as Mosimane begins preparing his squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers and international friendly against Egypt.

For the new head coach, this first selection represents more than just a list of players. It is the foundation of a new era built on a combination of experience, youth development and international ambition.

With one of Africa’s most respected coaches back at the helm, expectations are high. South African football supporters will be watching closely to see how quickly Mosimane can transform this talented group into a team capable of challenging the continent’s best.

The Pitso Mosimane era has started, and the journey towards a new Bafana Bafana identity begins now.