Mosimane explains emotional decision to leave Zwane out of Bafana Bafana squad

Pitso Mosimane says Themba Zwane accepted his omission from the latest Bafana Bafana squad so Lyle Foster and a younger generation of attackers can take the team forward.

Mosimane named his final 27-man squad on Thursday for the back-to-back 2027 Afcon qualifiers against co-hosts Kenya, with the first match at Orlando Stadium on Friday, November 13, followed by the return fixture in Nairobi four days later.

The absence of Zwane, 37, was one of the most notable decisions. Mosimane had spoken highly of the midfielder after returning to the Bafana Bafana hot seat two months ago, but said leaving him out was necessary despite the loss of his experience and tactical contribution.

“It was a bit difficult for the forward line,” Mosimane said. “It was an emotional one because I had to drop ‘Mshishi’. He’s also my coach, by the way. He helps me with the analysis of youngsters, saying: ‘Coach, this is this player’s strength.’ I left a coach behind.”

Mosimane says Foster had to be given an opportunity

The manager said the decision was based on the team’s long-term needs, with younger attacking players offering greater sharpness and a more clinical threat in the forward line.

Mosimane also questioned whether continuing to select Zwane could limit Foster’s opportunity to establish himself.

“I also had to ask myself: ‘Are we burying Lyle? Is he 35 years old? Is he not a good player anymore?’” Mosimane said. “Should we forget who scored the goals that qualified us for the Afcon and the World Cup? If I don’t call him, people will say: ‘He’s emotional and supports Zwane.’ This decision wasn’t about talent; it was very emotional.”

Although Mosimane has the final say over selection, he contacted Zwane personally to explain the decision. The conversation, he said, strengthened his respect for the player’s professionalism.

“Yes, I called him to explain. He took it very well because he’s a consummate professional,” Mosimane added. “Themba Zwane is a role model. He said: ‘Coach, relax. Let’s give Lyle a chance. We are playing at home. He’s deadly inside the box, and he can score for us.’”

Zwane remains available for Bafana Bafana provided he continues playing and competing at the required level. However, Mosimane’s admission that other players are now ahead of him in the selection order suggests the veteran’s international career may be nearing its end.