Mosimane faces selection decisions as Bafana prepare for three-game window

Pitso Mosimane is expected to name an unchanged group of goalkeepers but faces a difficult decision at right-back when he announces his final Bafana Bafana squad on Thursday for three matches during the next FIFA dates.

The international period runs from September 21 to October 6, with South Africa beginning their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Guinea on September 26 and Eritrea on September 30 in Group D. They will then face Egypt in Cairo on October 4.

Mosimane has returned to the national team with Bafana Bafana ranked 54th in the world. His second spell will start with competitive fixtures against Guinea, ranked 81st, and Eritrea, ranked 184th, before the friendly against Egypt, who are 24th in the FIFA rankings.

The coach’s final selection will offer an indication of how the three-time CAF Champions League winner intends to approach the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine and Ricardo Goss are expected to retain their places as the squad’s three goalkeepers. The trio were the established options under former coach Hugo Broos during the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

The main uncertainty is on the right side of defence. Khuliso Mudau is injured, while Thabang Matuludi has not played this season despite being selected. Kamogelo Sebelebele and Thapelo Morena offer attacking wing-back options, but Tshepo Mashiloane has limited experience.

That leaves Mosimane with a difficult choice in a position that has caused problems for the national team. Aubrey Modiba’s position at left-back is secure, with the main requirement there being a back-up option.

In central defence, Mosimane has Ime Okon, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Olwethu Makhanya and Khulumani Ndamane available. The group provides what appears to be a settled base for the new coach’s return.

Teboho Mokoena is set to anchor the central midfield alongside Sphephelo Sithole, while Lebohang Maboe has earned a recall after impressing for his club. Cemran Dansin and Brooklyn Poggenpoel are competing for the final midfield place.

The attacking options provide the greatest scope for selection changes. Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, Thapelo Maseko and Tshepang Moremi are expected to be joined by Puso Dithejane, Shandre Campbell and Tashreeq Matthews as options behind the main striker.

Themba Zwane will provide experience within the dressing room, while Iqraam Rayners and Lyle Foster are set to lead the forward line alongside Cassius Mailula.

Every selected player is in contention for playing time as Mosimane attempts to make an immediate impact in his return to the national team.