Mbokazi return sharpens Bafana Bafana selection battle, says Williams

The return of Mbekezeli Mbokazi has intensified competition for places in central defence, with Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams saying the squad is stronger as a result.

Bafana Bafana face Kenya at Orlando Stadium tomorrow in the first of two successive 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The teams will meet again in Nairobi next Tuesday.

Mbokazi is not the only player returning to the team. Lyle Foster and Thalente Mbatha are also back, with all three having been part of the squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Williams believes their experience and ability have added further quality to the group.

“Having Mbokazi and Foster coming back into the team is amazing. They have been part of the team before and they will no doubt bring their qualities and strengthen the competition within the team,” said Williams.

“This week’s training sessions have been so competitive from all the 27 players, but we are excited to have them back seeing that they were part of the history we made in the United States and Mexico.”

Bafana Bafana have previously struggled in qualifying campaigns when facing the same opponents twice in quick succession, particularly after beginning the tie at home.

During qualification for the 2019 AFCON, they defeated Seychelles 6-0 at home but were held to a draw in the away fixture, a result which came close to affecting their progress.

Williams was involved in those teams but says Bafana Bafana have learned from such performances and now approach two-legged fixtures differently.

“In the past we would always stutter in these two-legged games because it’s not easy playing the same opponent. However, we have improved on that because now we take it one game at a time knowing that each game presents its own challenges, responsibilities and game plan.”

The team currently lead Group D with six points from two matches and are three points clear of Guinea after winning their opening two qualifiers.

Only one team from Group D will qualify, joining co-hosts Kenya at the tournament. Williams said Bafana Bafana must preserve their position until the group stage concludes in March next year.

The team are also hoping for a stronger turnout in Gauteng, and particularly Johannesburg, after their opening qualifier against Guinea in September was not sold out.

Williams has called on supporters to attend in large numbers for the Kenya match and provide the team with the backing they need.