South Africa Coach Ephraim Mashaba Names Squad for Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers
South Africa’s new head coach Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba has announced his first squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Sudan and Nigeria. The Bafana Bafana coach unveiled a 25-man roster on Friday, with an additional nine players named as reserves, ready to be called upon if needed.
Mashaba’s squad features a blend of domestic league talent and players based overseas, aiming to build a competitive side for the crucial qualifying matches ahead.
Goalkeepers:
The goalkeeping department includes Itumeleng Khune (Kaizer Chiefs), Senzo Meyiwa (Orlando Pirates), and Dumisani Msibi (Supersport United).
Defenders:
Defensive options feature Anele Ngcongca from Racing Genk in Belgium, alongside local stars Ayabulela Magqwaka (Ajax Cape Town), Sibusiso Khumalo (Supersport United), Thulani Hlatshwayo (Wits), Buhlebuyeza Mkhwanazi (Wits), Erick Mathoho (Kaizer Chiefs), Thabo Matlata (Orlando Pirates), Rivaldo Coetzee (Ajax Cape Town), and Ramahlwe Mphahlele (Mamelodi Sundowns).
Midfielders:
The midfield line-up includes a mix of seasoned internationals and promising talents: Themba Zwane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Sibusiso Vilakazi (Bidvest Wits), Oupa Manyisa (Orlando Pirates), Andile Jali (KV Oostende, Belgium), Dean Furman (Doncaster Rovers, England), Ayanda Patosi (FC Lokeren, Belgium), Mandla Masango (Kaizer Chiefs), Keagan Dolly (Ajax Cape Town), and Kamohelo Mokotjo (FC Twente, Netherlands).
Forwards:
The attacking corps consists of Tokelo Rantie (AFC Bournemouth, England), Bongani Ndulula (AmaZulu), Bonginkosi Ntuli (Mamelodi Sundowns), and David Zulu (Chippa United).
Reserves:
On the reserve list are Darren Keet (KV Kortrijk, Belgium), Ronwen Williams (Supersport United), Ntsikelelo Nyauza (Orlando Pirates), Bongani Zungu (Mamelodi Sundowns), Jabulani Shongwe (Bidvest Wits), George Lebese (Kaizer Chiefs), Percy Tau (Mamelodi Sundowns), Nhlakanipho Ntuli (FC Twente, Netherlands), and Siyanda Ngubo (North West Shining Stars).
Mashaba’s selections reflect his intent to blend experience and youth as South Africa aims to secure qualification for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The team will look to build momentum as they prepare for these important fixtures, which mark a new era under their recently appointed coach.
