The “Jingles” era is officially back.
Pitso Mosimane has trimmed his preliminary group to a 30-player Bafana Bafana squad ahead of South Africa’s upcoming international fixtures, with the national team preparing for crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea before facing Egypt in an international friendly.
Returning to the Bafana Bafana hot seat, Mosimane has wasted little time putting his stamp on the national team. His first selection combines familiar faces with fresh opportunities, offering an early indication of the tactical direction he wants to take the team.
The Spine: Trusting the World Cup Core
Mosimane has opted for continuity in several key positions, retaining players who formed part of South Africa’s recent World Cup cycle.
Goalkeeping Stability
There is continuity between the posts, with Mamelodi Sundowns captain Ronwen Williams remaining a key figure in the squad.
He is joined by Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine and Sundowns teammate Ricardo Goss, giving Mosimane three experienced options in goal.
Midfield Experience
The midfield also features a familiar core.
Teboho Mokoena remains an important figure in the centre of the pitch, while Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole and Bathusi Aubaas provide additional options in the middle of the park.
The combination offers Mosimane a blend of physicality, defensive discipline and the ability to progress the ball through midfield.
Key Tactical Decisions and Domestic Recalls
While much of the squad will look familiar to Bafana supporters, several selections have attracted attention.
The Lebohang Maboe Factor
One of the notable inclusions is Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Lebohang Maboe.
Maboe has previously worked under Mosimane at club level, giving the Bafana coach an understanding of his qualities and tactical versatility.
His inclusion comes after a positive spell in domestic football and provides Mosimane with another technically capable option in midfield.
Notable Omissions
Mosimane also had to make difficult decisions when reducing the preliminary group to 30 players.
Among the players left out of the final squad is Lyle Foster, while Tshepang Moremi, Cemran Dansin, Ronaldo van Neel and Tshepo Mashiloane also missed out.
Mosimane indicated that injuries and final tactical considerations played a role in the decisions.
Expanding the Bafana Footprint
Another feature of Mosimane’s first squad is the presence of players developing their careers outside South Africa.
The selection includes talent based across Europe and North America, highlighting the national team’s increasingly global player pool.
Among those included are:
- Ime Okon – Hannover 96, Germany
- Olwethu Makhanya – Rangers FC, Scotland
- Samukele Kabini – Molde FK, Norway
- Relebohile Mofokeng – Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, Belgium
- Puso Dithejane – Chicago Fire, USA
The inclusion of these players gives Mosimane the opportunity to assess a wider pool of talent while maintaining a strong domestic presence.
Youth Opportunities Based on Quality
Mosimane has also made it clear that age alone will not determine whether a player receives an opportunity with Bafana Bafana.
Speaking about his approach to younger players, the coach emphasised the importance of quality and contribution.
“We also have a U21 player in the team, because we believe in giving young players an opportunity. But we don’t bring you because you are young, but because you have the quality and add value to the team.”
The message is straightforward: young players will be considered when their performances demonstrate that they can contribute at international level.
The Tests Awaiting Jingles
Mosimane’s return will be tested almost immediately, with Bafana Bafana facing a demanding run of international fixtures.
South Africa will host Guinea at Orlando Stadium on September 26, before travelling to Cairo to face Eritrea on September 30.
The international window will then conclude with a heavyweight friendly against Egypt on October 4.
These fixtures should provide Mosimane with an early opportunity to assess his squad, test different combinations and establish the tactical foundations of his second spell in charge.
A New Chapter for Bafana Bafana
Mosimane’s first squad brings together experienced internationals, domestic performers, overseas-based players and emerging talent.
The challenge now is turning that collection of individuals into a cohesive national team.
With the AFCON qualifying campaign providing competitive pressure and the Egypt friendly offering another high-profile test, Mosimane will have little time to settle back into the Bafana Bafana job.
For South Africa, the return of “Jingles” marks the beginning of another chapter.
The focus now shifts from squad selection to what happens on the pitch.
What are your thoughts on Pitso Mosimane’s first Bafana Bafana squad? Which player are you most excited to see in action? Let us know in the comments.
