Bafana Bafana squad named for vital World Cup Qualifiers
Coach Hugo Broos has called up experienced midfielder Malibongwe Khoza for South Africa's (Bafana Bafana) preliminary squad ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers matches. The upcoming fixtures represent a significant opportunity for the team, and Khoza's inclusion adds depth to the middle of the park.
The Bafana Bafana will travel to Bloemfontein to face Lesotho at the Free State Stadium on Friday, 5 September 2025, kicking off at 18:00. They will then host the Nigerian Super Eagles at the same venue three days later on Tuesday, 9 September 2025, at the same kick-off time.
Khoza earned his place in this selection after his participation in the African Nations Championship (CHAN). He featured with the South African contingent at the ongoing tournament, which saw the team navigate Group C alongside co-hosts Uganda, Niger, Guinea, and Algeria. Despite the team failing to progress beyond the group stage, Khoza was recognized for his positive contributions during the competition.
His call-up to the main squad is particularly noteworthy as he is the sole player from the recent CHAN contingent to receive a place. This highlights the coach's focus on blending proven international experience with potential selections from recent continental competitions.
In international competition, Bafana Bafana currently sit at the summit of Group C in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The team earned 13 points from six matches. Rwanda and Benin follow in second and third place respectively, both with eight points. Nigeria, the visitors to Bloemfontein, are currently fourth with seven points, while the hosts Lesotho are fifth with six points, and Zimbabwe trail with four points.
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