Pitso Mosimane names final South Africa squad for 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers

New Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has named his final squad for South Africa’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures.

Mosimane, who succeeded Hugo Broos, initially selected a 35-man preliminary squad two weeks ago. He has now reduced that group ahead of matches against Guinea and Eritrea, as well as an additional friendly against Egypt.

South Africa will face Guinea at Orlando Amstel Arena on 26 September before playing Eritrea on 30 September. The team will then meet Egypt in a further preparation match.

“We have reduced the 35 to 30 players, not an easy thing to do,” Mosimane said.

“We had to do our homework, who we called, why we called. But you must also understand why we couldn’t call all the players.

“Two qualifiers, one friendly. Everyone understands the importance of the qualifiers. But Egypt are also a big gun. It’s important to face the big guns.

“We kept the core of the World Cup team, but we have five players out due to injury, and we also want to give young players a chance.”

Mosimane’s final squad includes three goalkeepers, 14 defenders, five midfielders and 11 forwards.

Mosimane’s Bafana Bafana squad

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss

Defenders: Aubrey Modiba, Samkelo Kabini, Fawaz Basadien, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Thapelo Morena, Thabang Matuluid, Olwethu Makhanya, Khulumani Ndamane, Ime Okon, Lebone Seema, Nkosinathi Sibisi

Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Lebohang Maboe, Yaya Sithole, Bathusi Aubaas, Brookley Poggenpoel

Forwards: Iqraam Rayners, Yanela Mbuthuma, Cassius Mailula, Oswin Appollis, Puso Dithejane, Tashreeq Matthews, Relebohile Mofokeng, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko, Luther Singh, Shandre Campbell