Bafana Bafana squad: Who could face Kenya next month?

On 23 October, Pitso Mosimane named his preliminary squad to face Kenya in November.

Bafana Bafana face the 2027 AFCON co-hosts twice as the tournament qualifiers continue.

Here’s the full squad list and who could take on the Harambee Stars at the Orlando Stadium.

Mosimane names preliminary BAFANA BAFANA squad

As confirmed by the SAFA website, the preliminary squad was announced as follows:

Goalkeepers

Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss, Thakasani Mbanjwa.

Defenders

Aubrey Modiba, Samukele Kabini, Fawaaz Basadien, Nkosikhona Radebe, Thapelo Morena, Thabang Matuludi, Olwethu Makhanya, Khulumani Ndamane, Ime Okon, Lebone Seema, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Aden McCarthy.

Midfielders

Teboho Mokoena, Lebohang Maboe, Sphephelo Sithole, Bathusi Aubaas, Brooklyn Poggenpoel, Thalente Mbatha, Luke le Roux.

Forwards

Iqraam Rayners, Cassius Mailula, Oswin Appollis, Tashreeq Matthews, Relebohile Mofokeng, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko, Luther Singh, Devin Titus, Lyle Foster, Boitumelo Radiopane, Nqaba Xulu, Tshepang Moremi, Puso Dithejane.

Predicted XI vs Harambee Stars

Goalkeeper: Williams is likely to start at home against Kenya, as the clear first choice.

Defenders: Okon secured his spot at left-back after starting against Guinea, Eritrea, and Egypt in the friendly.

Because Makhanya started both qualifiers, he should start ahead of a returning Mbokazi.

Fans expect Modiba to start at left-back ahead of Kabini, who may sit on the bench.

Right-back is Mosimane’s biggest concern, with Sebelebele out for six weeks after surgery on his meniscus, according to Afrik-Foot.

Matuludi is most likely to take his place.

Holding midfield: Mosimane will rely on the established lineup of Sithole and Aubaas.

Mokoena will miss Sundowns’ clash with Durban City and is racing against time to be fit for international action.

Attacking midfield: If the coach sticks with a 4-2-3-1 formation, he could play Mofokeng alongside Appollis and Maseko on the wings.

Striker: Although Rayners finally broke his scoring drought, Foster’s imminent return will challenge him.

Predicted lineup: Williams, Modiba, Okon, Makhanya, Matuludi, Sithole, Aubaas, Mofokeng, Maseko, Appollis, Rayners.