Bafana Bafana Legend Issues Warning to Players Called Up by Pitso Mosimane for AFCON Qualifiers
- Bafana Bafana legend Sibusiso Zuma weighed in on Pitso Mosimane's first squad selection as the returning coach prepares for a three-match international window
- Several picks have attracted scrutiny, with former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye publicly questioning some of Mosimane's choices
- Zuma named Gift Links, Fagrie Lakay and Thembinkosi Lorch among the players still waiting on the sidelines for their national team opportunity
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Bafana Bafana legend Sibusiso Zuma says the players who earned a place in Pitso Mosimane's first squad have everything to fight for, as the returning coach begins shaping his vision for the national side.
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Mosimane trimmed his initial provisional group of 35 players down to 30 ahead of a demanding international window. South Africa host Guinea on 26 September, travel to face Eritrea on 30 September, and then take on Egypt in a friendly on 4 October. The fixtures also double as 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches.
Mosimane is back for a second stint as Bafana coach after the South African Football Association parted ways with predecessor Hugo Broos at the end of his contract.
Competition fierce as Mosimane assesses his options
Certain selections have already drawn scrutiny. The inclusion of Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma and veteran Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Themba Zwane have prompted debate, as has the presence of Sundowns winger Tashreeq Matthews. Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has been among the critics, openly questioning some of the choices.
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Zuma, however, holds a different view. He believes the call-ups will serve as a powerful incentive for the players involved.
"I know him; he is not a biased coach [Mosimane]. The players called up by the new coach will go all out to impress him because this is their first test," Zuma told FARPost.
"This will be Pitso's chance to really see if they will suit his system and his philosophy at Bafana Bafana."
New coach, fresh start for players on the fringe
Zuma also highlighted that Mosimane's arrival effectively resets the competition for national team places, opening the door for players who had previously been passed over. He cited Gift Links, Fagrie Lakay and Thembinkosi Lorch as among those still waiting for their opportunity.
"Bafana have quite a number of good players that were not called up in the past. They are waiting on the wings for their chances, and Pitso's coming brings a new chance," Zuma said.
"So those who are available will use this opportunity to make sure they catch Pitso's eye. They know they have to convince him that they deserve to stay in his plans. Everyone will want to prove that he should keep calling them up."
For Mosimane, the three upcoming fixtures represent an early chance to evaluate his options and begin building the Bafana team he intends to develop throughout his second tenure.
Orlando Stadium confirmed for Mosimane’s Bafana return
Briefly News previously reported that SAFA had confirmed Orlando Stadium as the venue for Pitso Mosimane’s first competitive match back in charge of Bafana Bafana.
South Africa will host Guinea in their opening AFCON 2027 qualifier on 26 September 2026, with tickets already on sale ahead of the fixture. SAFA president Danny Jordaan encouraged supporters to attend.
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Source: Briefly News
