s announced his much-anticipated final 25-man squad for the TotalEnergies AFCON. The selection is a clear statement of intent, blending the core of the team that secured a bronze medal in the previous tournament with a handful of exciting young prospects. Broos has largely stuck to the seasoned campaigners who understand his system, a philosophy he has often advocated for, while also providing a platform for rising stars. The Belgian tactician opted to use the expanded squad allowance of twenty-five players, indicating a desire for depth and contingency.
The Full 25-Man Squad List
The final selection demonstrates a commitment to continuity, particularly in defence and midfield, while injecting fresh energy into the attacking third.
In the goalkeeping department, the captain, Ronwen Williams, remains the undisputed number one, bringing invaluable leadership and composure. He is supported by the reliable options of Ricardo Goss and Sipho Chaine.
The defensive unit sees the return of familiar faces, crucial to the team’s strong defensive record. Key defenders include Grant Kekana, Mothobi Mvala, and the reliable left-back Aubrey Modiba. New defensive talents such as Tylon Smith and Khulumani Ndamane have been rewarded for their club form, suggesting a long-term vision for the Bafana backline.
The midfield engine room is central to Broos’s plans. The creative and defensive heartbeat of the team, Teboho Mokoena, is a certainty. He is joined by the versatile Bathusi Aubaas, Thalente Mbatha, and the Europe-based Sphephelo Sithole, creating a balanced and robust central unit capable of both breaking up play and initiating attacks.
Up front, the team will look to the English Premier League experience of Lyle Foster to lead the line alongside Evidence Makgopa. The inclusion of pacey wingers like Oswin Appollis, Mohau Nkota, and Tshepang Moremi suggests a focus on quick transitions and counter-attacks. Furthermore, the youthful inclusions of Shandre Campbell (from Club Brugge) and teenage sensation Relebohile Mofokeng are notable, offering fresh flair and energy to the attacking ranks.
Major Snubs and Strategic Omissions
As is common with any major tournament selection, Broos’s choices were not without controversy, with several high-profile players missing the cut from the preliminary list. The most talked-about exclusion continues to be veteran playmaker Themba Zwane, a figure Broos previously relied on. His omission is seen by many as a decision based on age or recent injury concerns, aligning with the coach’s consistent prioritisation of younger, more dynamic players. Another notable omission is striker Iqraam Rayners, who many feel deserved a spot as a clinical finisher, but was relegated to the stand-by list. The young Kaizer Chiefs talent, Mduduzi Shabalala, also finds himself on the reserve list, gaining experience but missing the final tournament squad.
The AFCON Challenge: Group B Fixtures
Bafana Bafana face a challenging, yet manageable, group as they aim to build on their previous AFCON success. They are pitted against neighbours Zimbabwe, Angola, and perennial continental giants Egypt. The group stage will be a major test of Broos’s squad depth and tactical flexibility. The team will commence its group matches on December 22nd against Angola at the Marrakesh Stadium, followed by a demanding encounter with Egypt on December 26th at the Adrar Stadium in Agadir, before concluding the group stage on December 29th against Zimbabwe back at the Marrakesh Stadium.
The team will assemble from December 8th to begin their final preparations before the tournament kicks off on December 21st. The nation now awaits to see if this blend of experience and youth can deliver a performance worthy of a continental title challenge.
French 
English