Moloisane targeting Bafana Bafana return amid fierce centre-back competition

Kaizer Chiefs defender Thabo Moloisane says he is determined to earn his way back into the South Africa squad despite the growing number of centre-backs competing for places in Bafana Bafana.

South Africa’s defensive options have expanded significantly in a short period, with a new generation of central defenders establishing themselves at club level and challenging for international selection.

At the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Bafana Bafana’s centre-back options included Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Siyabonga Ngezana, Khulumani Ndamane and Tylon Smith.

By the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ime Okon and Olwethu Makhanya had also emerged as contenders, giving the coaching staff even greater depth to consider.

Rushwin Dortley, Malibongwe Khoza, Lebone Seema and Aden McCarthy are among the other defenders hoping to force their way into contention through consistent performances for their clubs.

Moloisane, who is working to regain his place in the national-team set-up, accepts that the competition is intense. The 29-year-old said the issue had recently been discussed with his Kaizer Chiefs team-mate Mduduzi Shabalala.

“I was talking to Mdu last week, the competition is strong, the pecking order is very long, but credit to the guys, they are doing well, and for me it’s just to continue working hard, you know,” Moloisane said.

Rather than focusing on the players ahead of him, the defender is concentrating on improving his own performances and maintaining his work rate.

Moloisane looking to rebuild momentum

Moloisane admitted that last season had been difficult, but believes regular football has helped him rediscover his form and confidence.

“I had a bit of a difficult season last season, but I’m happy to be starting now and feeling like myself again, and I’m sure as I continue working hard, I can get back into that set-up, who wouldn’t want to be in the set-up anyways.”

A sustained run in the Kaizer Chiefs starting line-up would give Moloisane an opportunity to make a stronger case for a return to Bafana Bafana.

He also believes the increased competition reflects positive changes in South African football. According to the defender, younger players are now being trusted in a position that was previously more commonly occupied by experienced defenders.

“The future is bright, we’re all playing for good teams, working hard, and the league has changed, many teams before, the centre-backs used to be older guys. The system has changed now; we have to embrace it and keep working hard.”

The number of available defenders means every league appearance can influence the national-team selection picture. For Moloisane, the task is to remain focused, continue working and allow his performances to strengthen his claim.

The growing depth in central defence has made selection more difficult for Bafana Bafana, but it also provides South Africa with a wider group of players capable of competing for international places.