Pitso Mosimane has named a 25-man preliminary South Africa squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Kenya. The Bafana Bafana head coach, who returned to the role in September, has emphasised a meritocratic selection process free from external influence.

His squad announcement on October 23 includes the return of key players Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Thalente Mbatha from injury. The selection builds on the solid defensive foundation established under previous coach Hugo Broos, with Ronwen Williams, Aubrey Modiba, Ime Okon, and Khuliso Mudau forming a settled unit. Mosimane praised Broos's record but was clear about his own approach. "My selection is meritocratic and free from agent influence," he said.

Squad composition and omissions

The squad includes four goalkeepers, 13 defenders, seven midfielders, and 14 forwards, drawing from a wide range of clubs including Orlando Pirates, Cercle Brugge, and Chicago Fire. Notable absentees are Yanela Mbuthuma and Shandre Campbell, whose form has dipped recently. Defenders Fawaaz Basadien, Olwethu Makhanya, and Aden McCarthy are also under consideration for the backline, with Mudau the likely first-choice right-back when fully fit.

This approach directly addresses concerns raised by Broos about club and agent interference. The former coach had stated bluntly, "Club owners and agents calling coaches to influence the squad selection. I threw all of them out." Mosimane has declined to engage in a public dispute, instead focusing on enhancing the competitive culture.

Qualifying context and fixtures

South Africa sit top of Group D after winning their opening two qualifiers in September, defeating Guinea 2-1 in Johannesburg and Eritrea 5-0 in Egypt. Their most recent result was a 1-0 victory over Egypt in Cairo on October 4, with P. Dithejane scoring the decisive goal in the 51st minute. This win extends their unbeaten run to one match as they prepare for the double-header against Kenya.

The team will host Kenya at Orlando Amstel Arena on November 13 before travelling to Nairobi for the return fixture on November 17. Tickets for the home match are priced at R100 for adults and R40 for children aged 5 to 12. Fans can view the full squad list and upcoming fixtures on our pages.

Mosimane's task is to guide Bafana Bafana, who finished third at the 2023 AFCON and reached the 2026 World Cup round of 32, through the next phase of qualification. The preliminary group will now assemble for a training camp ahead of the first match against Kenya on November 11.

Background and full detail: ESPN