South Africa coach Pitso Mosimane explains Themba Zwane’s Bafana Bafana return

Themba Zwane’s inclusion in the latest Bafana Bafana squad is not necessarily about expecting the experienced midfielder to produce his best performances or carry the team on the field.

Instead, his return is largely viewed as an opportunity for the younger players in Pitso Mosimane’s squad to benefit from his wealth of experience and understanding of international football.

Zwane has spent years representing South Africa at the highest level and has developed into one of the most experienced figures in the national team setup. His presence, therefore, could provide valuable guidance to the emerging players who are still finding their feet on the international stage.

Mosimane explained that Zwane’s role will extend beyond what he can contribute during his minutes on the pitch, with the coach expecting the veteran to share his knowledge with the younger members of the squad.

“Experience, leadership. Let him tell Puso Dithejane what it is to play for Bafana,” Mosimane said when explaining the decision to select Zwane.

“What is expected to stay at a high level, and what must he do to find the boys. And patience also.”

The coach believes Zwane can help the younger players understand the demands that come with representing Bafana Bafana, particularly the level of professionalism, patience and consistency required when competing at international level.

For Mosimane, having a player of Zwane’s experience around the squad can also help bridge the gap between the established generation and the emerging talents who are expected to play increasingly important roles for South Africa in the future.

However, Mosimane was also clear that Zwane’s selection does not mean the veteran will automatically start ahead of younger players who are currently in better physical condition.

The coach pointed specifically to Oswin Appollis, acknowledging that Zwane is not currently at the physical level required to displace the younger attacker from a starting position.

“And by the way, sometimes you need to score, he must be ready. Rele struggled to score,” Mosimane added.

“10, 15 minutes, he’s got that aura, combining things. But you know guys, he’s not in a very good physical condition to be playing ahead of [Oswin] Appollis, let’s be honest.”

Mosimane’s comments suggest that Zwane could be used strategically, particularly in situations where his experience and composure can influence the game without placing excessive physical demands on him.

Even a brief appearance could allow the veteran midfielder to make an impact through his technical ability, awareness and leadership, while simultaneously giving the younger players an opportunity to learn from him.

Zwane’s presence could therefore prove valuable both on and off the pitch, as Bafana Bafana continue to integrate experienced players with a younger generation expected to carry the national team forward.