Final 25-man Bafana Bafana squad named for AFCON 2025 in Morocco

The group largely reflects continuity from the 2023 AFCON bronze-medal campaign, while introducing rising stars who have forced their way in through standout club form.

The major omission is that of Mamelodi Sundowns stalwart Themba Zwane, who just recently returned from injury, while junior international stars Tylon Smith and Shandre Campbell have been handed maiden senior call-ups.

Captain Ronwen Williams leads the goalkeeping department, joined by the tried and tested Ricardo Goss and Orlando Pirates’ Sipho Chaine.

In defence, Broos has retained the spine of Khuliso Mudau, Nkosinathi Sibisi and Aubrey Modiba, while adding overseas-based trio of Smith, Siyabonga Ngezana and Samukelo Kabini to reinforce depth and versatility.

Polokwane City’s Thabang Matuludi and TS Galaxy’s Khulumani Ndamane are rewarded for their consistent domestic performances that boosted their rise into the national fold.

Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas and Thalente Mbatha headline a balanced midfield unit that blends ball-winning power, tactical discipline and creative range.

Portugal-based Sphephelo Sithole returns to the national setup to provide added physicality and structure in central areas as Bafana prepare for a physically competitive AFCON tournament.

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In attack, Broos has opted for an explosive mix of youth and experience, with Oswin Appollis, Mohau Nkota, Tshepang Moremi and Evidence Makgopa retaining their places following strong showings in the World Cup qualifiers. 

Lyle Foster, Elias Mokwana and Campbell add cutting edge and proven quality from top international leagues, while Relebohile Mofokeng and Sipho Mbule round off an attack built around pace, creativity and high pressing.

The national side will assemble on 8 December before departing for Morocco, where they begin their quest for a historic second continental title.

Bafana open their AFCON campaign against Angola on 22 December before facing Egypt four days later and rounding out Group B against Zimbabwe on 29 December, with expectations high after their recent resurgence under Broos.

The squad will undergo final tune-up sessions in camp before the coach settles on his matchday combinations for the group stage.

FINAL AFCON SQUAD:

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele FC), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba (both Sundowns), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi (both Pirates), Khulumani Ndamane (TS Galaxy), Siyabonga Ngezana (FCSB, Romania), Samukelo Kabini (Molde FK, Norway), Tylon Smith (QPR, England)

Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas (both Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Pirates), Sphephelo Sithole (CD Tondela, Portugal)

Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Sipho Mbule, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng (all Pirates), Lyle Foster (Burnley, England), Mohau Nkota (Al-Ettifaq, Saudi Arabia), Elias Mokwana (Al Hazem, Saudi Arabia), Shandre Campbell (Club Brugge, Belgium)

Standby reserves: Mduduzi Shabalala (Kaizer Chiefs), Iqraam Rayners (Sundowns), Thabo Moloisane (Stellenbosch FC)