Bafana Bafana will compete in their 12th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) next month as they aim to replicate the success of the 1996 team.
In the last edition, Hugo Broos’ squad reached the semi-finals in Ivory Coast. Since then, the team has grown and improved, qualifying for their first FIFA World Cup in 23 years.
Under Broos’ leadership, Bafana has become a formidable opponent in Africa, boasting a record of over 20 matches unbeaten. It feels, for the first time in two decades, that South Africa is among the best countries in Africa.
So, which Bafana players will make it to AFCON?
As of now, at least five players have secured their spots in the tournament.
Here are those players who are expected to feature prominently, possibly even starting for Bafana:
Rownen Williams
The 33-year-old goalkeeper has been Bafana’s number one for six years. His leadership and exceptional shot-stopping skills have made him an invaluable asset, contributing significantly to the team’s recent improvements.
He has led Bafana in the AFCON before and kept five clean sheets in the previous edition.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi
Known as TLB, Mbokazi made his professional debut this year but has already established himself as a leader in both the Orlando Pirates and Bafana defences. He will likely be the first name on the team sheet when South Africa faces Angola in their opening match.
Teboho Mokoena
Mokoena has been a key player for the national team for the past five years. This will be his third AFCON, and with nearly 50 caps to his name, he will be one of the most experienced players in the squad.
Oswin Appollis
The speedy winger has been a regular for Bafana, even during his time at Polokwane City. His move to Orlando Pirates has elevated his game significantly at just 24 years old. Expect him to continue making impactful runs down the left flank and causing problems for opposing teams during AFCON.
Lyle Foster
At 25 years old, Foster is almost guaranteed to start. Although he missed the 2023 tournament, if he is fit, he will be in the lineup against Angola. Bafana will rely on Foster’s abilities, especially in aerial challenges, to compete against strong African teams in AFCON.
