Pitso Mosimane has won his first two matches as Bafana Bafana coach, but the early success of his youthful squad could leave several experienced players struggling to regain their places.
South Africa defeated Guinea and lowly ranked Eritrea in Mosimane’s opening fixtures. Both victories came in AFCON qualifiers, giving them added importance as the country’s campaign develops.
Qualification for next year’s AFCON is the immediate priority. However, once Bafana secure their place at the tournament, expectations will increase and competition for places is likely to become even more intense.
Mosimane has already started to shape his squad during the qualifiers. Most of the players are around 23 years old, while only a handful are over 30. Six members of his starting XI currently play in Europe.
That apparent focus on the future could make it difficult for several established Bafana players to return.
Grant Kekana
Grant Kekana has missed out on two major tournaments and may now face a difficult route back into the national team.
The Mamelodi Sundowns defender has made clear his desire to play for Bafana again, but South Africa have a growing group of young defensive options. Olwethu Makhanya, Ime Okon and Mbekezeli Mbokazi are among those competing for opportunities.
With Mosimane showing faith in emerging players, another call-up for Kekana appears uncertain.
Percy Tau
Percy Tau’s international prospects are also unclear. The Lion of Judah has been without a club for about six months and, at 32, is no longer afforded the same time to rebuild his club career.
A return to Bafana would have appeared more achievable if Tau had been playing regularly. His experience and previous contribution to the national team remain advantages, but his lack of competitive football makes a comeback increasingly difficult.
Mothobi Mvala
Mothobi Mvala played an important, if understated, role in South Africa’s run to the bronze medal at AFCON 2023.
Since then, injuries have interrupted his international career. The versatile defender has been absent from the national-team setup for some time, while the number of competing defensive options has increased.
South Africa’s younger alternatives may make it difficult for Mvala to earn another opportunity under Mosimane.
Nyiko Mobbie
Nyiko Mobbie was a regular choice for Hugo Broos, especially during the Belgian coach’s first years in charge. After 2023, however, he was gradually moved out of the squad as Broos relied heavily on Khuliso Mudau at right-back.
The position is now even more competitive, with Kamogelo Sebelebele and Thabang Matuludi also emerging as options. Without a significant change in circumstances, Mobbie may struggle to return.
Lebo Mothiba
Mosimane is still looking for a prolific striker to lead Bafana’s attack, but Lebo Mothiba has yet to establish himself as the solution.
The forward has been inconsistent in front of goal for Mamelodi Sundowns, while his age does not fit as easily with Mosimane’s plans for the future. Younger attacking players are emerging, meaning Mothiba may need a sustained run of form to earn another chance.
Mosimane appears to have established the core of his Bafana team, and that is unlikely to change soon.
