Pitso Mosimane's second preliminary squad for Bafana Bafana has demonstrated a clear meritocratic approach, countering concerns about club influence that surfaced when he returned as head coach. The 34-man group, named for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Kenya, includes several players returning from injury and new faces, while some previously called-up names have been dropped.

Mosimane, 62, took charge again earlier this year and named his first squad in September. His latest selection shows a willingness to evolve the group, bringing back Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Thalente Mbatha after they missed the previous camp through injury. New call-ups include defender Aden McCarthy and forward Botiumelo Radiopane, while experienced campaigners like Ronwen Williams and Teboho Mokoena remain.

Squad changes and philosophy

Notable absentees from the list are Yanela Mbuthuma and Shandre Campbell. Mosimane also cut two players he had initially selected after they were overlooked by his predecessor, Hugo Broos. This move underlines a performance-based policy. "What I like is that they’re not afraid to play and we need to give them a chance," Mosimane said. "I let them swim with the sharks, threw them in the deep end. Yeah, they swam."

The coach praised the work done by Broos, who led the team to victories in their first two Group D qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea last month. South Africa currently tops that qualifying group. The squad's composition suggests Mosimane is blending the settled core from that period-including a back five of Williams, Modiba, Mbokazi, Okon, and Khuliso Mudau when fit-with fresh talent he wants to assess.

Building on recent momentum

Bafana Bafana's form provides a positive backdrop for these selections. Their most recent outing was a 1-0 friendly victory over Egypt in Cairo on 4 October, with Promise Dithejane scoring the winner in the 51st minute. That result extended their unbeaten run to one match. You can review the team's recent results and upcoming schedule on our fixtures page.

The immediate focus is a double-header against Kenya in November, key for maintaining their perfect start in AFCON qualifying. The first match is scheduled for 13 November at Orlando Amstel Arena in Johannesburg, with the return leg in Nairobi on 17 November. Ticket prices have been set at R100 for adults and R40 for children aged 5 to 12.

Lyle Foster has earned a second successive call-up, while midfield options see Brooklyn Poggenpoel retained after impressing previously. Defenders Fawaaz Basadien and Olwethu Makhanya are also in contention. The South African Football Association's decision to reappoint Mosimane appears to be paying early dividends, with the squad showing a balance of continuity and competition for places. Preparations will now intensify for the visit of Kenya on 11 November, a match that will be key to solidifying their position at the top of the group standings.

Background and full detail: ESPN