Bafana Bafana in peak shape ahead of CHAN opener

Ntseki’s charges played against Angola and Motsepe Foundation Championship side Baroka FC in preparation for the continental tournament, which features only players competing in their domestic leagues.

Ntseki says the matches have been instrumental in raising the squad’s fitness levels before the competition begins.

He is also banking on the experience of the players called up for this tournament.

"Playing a warm-up match against Angola (2025 COSAFA Cup Champions) helped us to profile our team after just three training sessions. 

"This team is capable of something special. Our players have quality and maturity, having played in the PSL for many many years, and some of them have played for the national team before," explained Ntseki. 

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With a squad dominated by unattached players who have not had proper pre-season training, Ntseki is fully aware of the demands of this tournament.

Bafana play their first game against Algeria on Friday, and also have Guinea, the hosts, and Nigeria in the group.

Ntseki says that with the number of teams, it means that almost every player will get game time.

To improve the fitness levels of these players and thoroughly prepare for this tournament, Ntseki has roped in one of the country’s best strength and conditioning coaches, Kabelo Rangoaga.

Having won the CAF Champions League three times and returned with the FIFA Club World Cup bronze medal two times, working with coach Pitso Mosimane, Ntseki says in Rangoaga, they have one of the best in the business.

"In my first assignment as Bafana Bafana coach, I recruited Mr Rangoaga because of his vast experience, having worked with Mamelodi Sundowns, Platinum Stars, and he has also assisted a number of national team coaches.

"Mr Rangoaga offers an understanding of both the physical and tactical aspects of the game."

Bafana Bafana arrived in Kampala, Uganda, yesterday, where they will play all their group-stage matches.

By Rangoaga’s standards, there will be enough time to get the team to acclimatise and be ready for the opening game.