New South Africa head coach Pitso Mosimane has named his first preliminary squad for the national team, Bafana Bafana. The announcement on Saturday, 5 September 2026, comes just days after Mosimane officially took charge on Tuesday, 1 September, replacing Belgian Hugo Broos.
Mosimane's initial selection offers a clear look at his plans as South Africa prepares for a critical period. The team will open their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign at home against Guinea on Saturday, 26 September. Four days later, they face Eritrea on Wednesday, 30 September. An international friendly against Egypt is also scheduled for 4 October. This will be the squad's first match since the passing of midfielder Jayden Adams, who was laid to rest in Stellenbosch in July.
What does the preliminary squad look like?
The wider squad, as reported by OFM, blends established internationals with fresh faces. Goalkeepers Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, and Ricardo Goss are joined by younger options Ime Okon, Lebone Seema, and Nkosinathi Sibisi. The defensive group includes Aubrey Modiba, Thapelo Morena, and Olwethu Makhanya alongside newcomers like Kamogelo Sebelebele and Khulumani Ndamane.
In midfield, Teboho Mokoena and Sphephelo Sithole provide a core of experience. The forward line is packed with options, from Lyle Build and Themba Zwane to exciting talents like Relebohile Mofokeng and Cassius Mailula. Several players who featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup are absent due to injury. Mosimane noted his first squad offers "an early glimpse into his thinking, a blend of proven international performers, emerging talent and continuity."
How does the squad connect to broader team development?
Mosimane is already working closely with Raymond Mdaka, coach of the South African Under-23 national team. Several younger players included in this wider senior squad could also be considered for the U-23 side, ensuring a pipeline of talent. This coordination between technical teams is a key part of building for the future beyond the immediate qualifying task.
For fans tracking the team's progress, the full squad list is available for detailed review. The immediate focus, however, is on competitive results. South Africa's recent form shows the challenge, with one win, two draws, and two losses in their last five matches (LWDDL). Their last outing was a 0-1 defeat to Canada on 28 June 2026.
What is the context from their World Cup campaign?
South Africa arrives at this new cycle with momentum from their 2026 FIFA World Cup performance in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. They reached the second round, finishing their group in second place with four points from one win, one draw, and one loss. They scored two goals and conceded three during that stage, ending five points behind group leaders Mexico.
Mosimane's priority is to use that experience and get Bafana Bafana firing again in a tricky qualifying campaign. The team's current standings in World Cup qualifying reflect a solid base, but the AFCON path demands a strong start. The blend in his first squad suggests he is looking both at the present challenge and the long-term health of the national team setup.
The first test under the new coach is now set. Bafana Bafana will host Guinea at home on 26 September 2026, marking the start of their quest to reach the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. You can view the upcoming fixtures for the full schedule.
