Mosimane admits Zwane omission was ‘emotional’ decision for Bafana Bafana

Pitso Mosimane says leaving Themba Zwane out of the latest Bafana Bafana squad was one of the most difficult decisions of his coaching career, despite putting personal feelings aside to select the team he believes is right for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Mosimane has a close relationship with Zwane dating back to their time together at Mamelodi Sundowns. The midfielder featured in the squad for the opening qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, as well as the international friendly against Egypt, but has not been selected for the two upcoming matches against Kenya.

Speaking after naming his squad, Mosimane said he had spoken directly to the experienced player rather than allowing him to learn of the decision through the media.

“It was a tough one for me because I am emotionally attached. This is a national team, it is not about emotions. It is about doing what you think is right,” Mosimane said.

“I spoke to him. I have to give him the respect. He is not a player that you just drop and continue, and he sees it in the media. I spoke to him.”

Mosimane explained that Zwane had played an important role in helping him understand the squad and maintain its culture, particularly because it was his first time working with several of the players.

“If you know Themba Zwane, you should know how difficult it is to make that call because he is not a player you just leave out,” he said.

“I call him my consultant because on the pitch I talk to him because I do not know the personalities of the players. It was the first time I was with them and Themba was so crucial for me to let me know and keep the culture of the team.

“You have got to understand how emotional it was for me to drop Themba Zwane. It was so difficult.”

The omission does not mean Zwane’s international career is over, with Mosimane leaving open the possibility of a return in future.

For the moment, the coach will rely on a younger group to help Bafana Bafana secure their place at the Africa Cup of Nations. Sphephelo Sithole, Aubrey Modiba, Teboho Mokoena and captain Ronwen Williams are among those expected to provide leadership to the emerging players in the squad.

One of the notable selections is Siyanda Ndlovu of Mamelodi Sundowns. Zwane’s club team-mate has impressed since moving to the Tshwane club from Golden Arrows.

Bafana Bafana will host Kenya in a Group D qualifier at Orlando Stadium on November 13. The teams will meet again in Nairobi four days later.

The fitness of Mokoena and Williams, who have both recently been injured, will be assessed when the squad gathers in camp on Monday.