‘Mark my words’ – Thabo Moloisane vows to fight his way back into Bafana Bafana

Kaizer Chiefs defender Thabo Moloisane has vowed to reclaim his place in the South Africa national team, insisting he will return to the Bafana Bafana squad despite stiff competition for defensive positions.

The 27-year-old has not featured for South Africa in more than a year after falling out of favour following a difficult spell at Stellenbosch FC. He was previously included in Hugo Broos’ squads during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign but missed out on selection for both the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup.

Moloisane is now determined to revive his international career after joining Kaizer Chiefs on a free transfer in July, viewing his move to Naturena as an opportunity to rebuild his form and attract the attention of the national team selectors.

Moloisane acknowledges tough Bafana competition

The defender recognises that returning to the national team will require patience and consistent performances, particularly given the quality of players competing for places in Broos’ squad.

However, he believes his position at one of South Africa’s most closely watched clubs gives him an opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities.

“We should give credit to the guys, you know. I was speaking to Mdu (Shabalala) last week, saying the line is long to get back into Bafana, but at the same time, I’m at a big institution watched by everyone. For me, it’s just to continue working hard. The journey is still long,” he told the media.

His comments reflect an awareness of the challenge ahead, with the defender acknowledging that simply returning to form at club level will not automatically guarantee him a place in the national team.

Chiefs’ high profile, however, provides a platform for Moloisane to make his case through regular appearances and dependable defensive displays.

‘Mark my words’: Defender targets international return

Despite his absence from the national setup, Moloisane remains confident that he can earn another opportunity with Bafana Bafana.

Having previously experienced the demands of international football, he believes he understands what is required to compete at that level and is convinced his difficult spell at Stellenbosch will not define his career.

“I’m a South African player, I’ve been in the Bafana setup. I know what it takes and I had a tricky past season. But I’m getting back to my best and mark my words, I’ll be back in the Bafana squad,” he added.

The declaration underlines his determination to put the disappointment of the previous season behind him and establish himself as a reliable option for both club and country.

For Moloisane, the immediate priority is to build consistency at Kaizer Chiefs and demonstrate that he can perform at the level required to challenge for international recognition.

Chiefs move offers fresh start

Moloisane’s switch to Naturena represents a fresh chapter after his departure from Stellenbosch FC.

The defender will be hoping that a strong run of performances for Amakhosi can help restore his confidence and place him back on the radar of the national team coaching staff.

His ambitions also come against the backdrop of Kaizer Chiefs’ limited representation in recent Bafana Bafana squads for major international tournaments.

A successful return to the national team would therefore represent a significant personal milestone for the 27-year-old as he seeks to establish himself among South Africa’s leading defenders.