Bafana Bafana prepares for Afcon encounter. Image credit: Far Post.
(The Post News) – Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has officially named a 54-man preliminary squad. This is for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Marking the first step toward finalizing the team that will represent South Africa at the continental showpiece.
The wider squad, announced this week, features a blend of seasoned internationals, rising talents, and several surprise inclusions. Hugo Broos looks forward to build depth ahead of a demanding tournament.
The squad will be cut down to the final 23-man traveling group in early December,. This gives the technical team enough time to assess form, fitness and balance in key positions. AFCON 2025 will run from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026. South Africa drawn in Group B alongside Angola, Egypt and Zimbabwe. A pool many expect to offer early challenges but also opportunities for Bafana to advance.
Experienced Heads and Key Returnees
Among the most notable inclusions is veteran playmaker Themba Zwane. He has been declared fit in time for the tournament despite recent injury concerns at club level. Broos’ leadership and creativity stays vital to Broos’ midfield structure.
Captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams leads the goalkeeping unit. It consists of five members. The unit also includes Ricardo Goss, Sipho Chaine, Renaldo Leaner, and Brandon Petersen. Ensuring strong competition for the goal kepper department.
The List Of The Bafana Bafana preliminary Squad For The Afcon Tournament
Goal Keepers
Ronwen Williams [Mamelodi Sundowns], Ricardo Goss [Siwelele FC], Syphon Chaine [Orlando Pirates], Renaldo Leaner [Sekhukhune United], Darren Johnson [AmaZulu FC] and Brandon Petersen [Kaizer Chiefs].
Defenders
Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Malibongwe Khoza, Thapelo Morena, Fawaaz Basadien [all Mamelodi Sundowns], Fezile Ngcaba [Durban City], Thabang Matuludi [Polokwane City], Thabo Moloisane [Stellenbosch FC], Khulumani Ndamane [TS Galaxy], Mbekezile Mbokazi, Nkosinathi Sibisi [all Orlando Pirates], Ime Okon [Hannover 96], Samukelo Kabini [Molde FK], Keegan Allan [AmaZulu FC], Vuyo Letlapa [Sekhukhune United], Siyabonga Ngezana [FCSB], Thabiso Monyane, Bradley Cross [all Kaizer Chiefs] and Tylon Smith [Queens Park Rangers].
Midfielders
Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas [all Mamelodi Sundowns], Luke Le Roux [Portsmouth FC], Thalenthe Mbatha, Masindi Nemutajela [all Orlando Pirates], Siphesihle Mkhize [Sekhukhune United], Siphesihle Maduna [TS Galaxy], Ndamulelo Maphangule [Polokwane City], Siphephelo Sithole [CD Tondela], Mthetheleli Mthiyane [Stellenbosch FC].
Forwards
Oswin Appollis, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Patrick Maswanganyi, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Sipho Mbule, Relebohile Mofokeng [all Orlando Pirates], Iqraam Rayners, Themba Zwane [all Mamelodi Sundowns], Mduduzi Shabalala [Kaizer Chiefs], Mohau Nkota [AL Ettifaq], Lyle Foster [Burnley FC], Puso Dithejane [TS Galaxy], Bongonkuhle Hlongwane [Minnesota SC], Mihlali Mayambela [Arris Limassol], Ashley Cupido [Stellenbosch FC], Keletso Makgalwa [Sekhukhune United], Shandre Campbell [Club Brugge] and Elias Mokwane [AL Hazem].
Broos’ wide selection reflects his belief that squad depth will be crucial in navigating a challenging AFCON schedule. Competition is intensifying across all positions. The next few weeks will be decisive. Players are battling for a spot in the final squad.
South Africa will now enter the final phase of preparations before the final team announcement in December. The country last reached the AFCON semi-finals in 2024. Expectations stay high that Broos can guide Bafana to another deep run. This time with fresh legs and renewed confidence. The squad is brimming with both experience and youthful spark.
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