Mosimane to build on Bafana Bafana foundation rather than start over

New Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane says he will not make sweeping changes to the squad inherited from Hugo Broos, despite several key players being unavailable for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Mosimane, appointed as South Africa’s new head coach, is already assessing possible replacements for the injured Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Khuliso Mudau, Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa.

He has also been monitoring South African players performing well abroad and could use the international window to introduce some of them to the national team. Olwethu Makhanya and Samukele Kabini are among those who could benefit from the absences and be given more playing time to establish themselves.

Speaking to the media after his unveiling at SAFA House on Tuesday, Mosimane said he intended to strengthen the existing squad rather than dismantle it.

“I am not carrying the biggest broom to sweep here. We have a very good foundation of the team that went to the World Cup, mixed with about five major injuries that they won’t be available. I think you know the names of the people who won’t be available. We need to replace them, but there is no time,” Mosimane told reporters.

The 62-year-old is expected to name his first Bafana Bafana squad this month, with the team’s immediate priority being the two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Mosimane acknowledged that the injuries had created a need for changes, but said the squad would also provide an opportunity to assess emerging talent. A friendly match scheduled to take place alongside the two competitive fixtures could allow players who have struggled for regular involvement to make their case.

“We just have to replace those players who are out injured and also at the same time there is a few emerging talents, players who are doing exceptionally well abroad. We know about them. We are looking into that, but the main focus is the two qualifiers and we have a friendly game that we can bring and give other players a chance who have not been able to play,” he added.

Kabini was specifically identified as one of the players who could be given an opportunity. Mosimane noted that several members of the World Cup squad travelled with the team but did not feature, and suggested the friendly could finally give them valuable minutes.

“You have players like Kabini and them who have not been given a chance to play. We have to see them also and they are part of the team. They were in the World Cup and didn’t get a chance to play. We also have a team that, you and me know, has to lead us to qualify, but in the process we will give opportunities to other players. Fortunately, there is a friendly game behind the two qualifiers. Hopefully we will see those players playing. They have an opportunity to be seen,” Mosimane concluded.

The new coach therefore faces a balance between relying on the core of the side that represented South Africa at the World Cup and using the qualifiers and accompanying friendly to widen his options.

His first squad announcement will offer the clearest indication of how he plans to cover the injury absences while integrating players from both South Africa and overseas.