Rangers defender Olwethu Makhanya earns Bafana Bafana call-up after impressive start

Olwethu Makhanya’s strong early-season form for Rangers has earned him international recognition, with the 22-year-old named in Pitso Mosimane’s Bafana Bafana squad for crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea.

The South African defender joined Scottish Premiership giants Rangers in July and has quickly established himself as a player attracting attention beyond Scotland.

Makhanya’s performances have been particularly notable despite Rangers enduring a difficult start to the campaign. His consistency has also drawn praise from former Republic of Ireland international Aiden McGeady, who believes interest from other clubs may soon follow.

“Olwethu Makhanya has really impressed meI can see offers coming in already,” McGeady told BOYLE Sports.

“He is definitely one who has stood out to me, to be honest with you. Even though Rangers have endured a difficult start to the campaign, his individual performances have been remarkably consistent, and he deserves real credit.

“He looks like a top-class playerstrong, quick, athletic, and composure-driven on the ball. Rangers might very well have uncovered a hidden gem, and if he maintains this upward trajectory, it won’t be long before major offers start rolling in for him.”

Makhanya’s progress at club level has now been followed by an opportunity to strengthen his position in the national team. His latest Bafana Bafana selection comes as South Africa prepare for two important Group D fixtures.

The defender will be expected to continue building his reputation under Mosimane, with regular international involvement providing another route towards establishing himself among Europe’s leading players.

There is also the possibility that Makhanya will become an increasingly important figure in the national set-up as his career develops.

Bafana Bafana will host Guinea at Orlando Stadium on Saturday before travelling to face Eritrea in their next Group D fixture on September 30.

Makhanya’s emergence represents another significant step in a career that has already taken him from South Africa to Rangers, where his performances have put him firmly under the spotlight.

His ability to combine strength, speed and composure on the ball has been central to the positive assessment of his start in Scotland, while his call-up gives him the chance to make a further impression on the international stage.