As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers draw closer, Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has confirmed his 23-man squad, though not without some last-minute adjustments. With critical matches against Uganda and South Sudan on the horizon, South Africa’s national team is gearing up with new energy and strategy. Here’s a closer look at the squad updates and their significance ahead of these high-stakes fixtures.
Mayambela Withdrawn Due to Injury, Titus Called Up
The latest shake-up in the Bafana Bafana squad came with the unfortunate withdrawal of Mihlali Mayambela. After earning a recall to the national team following an impressive run of form, Mayambela sustained an injury over the weekend, which has ruled him out of the upcoming qualifiers. His absence is a blow, given his recent contributions and the faith Broos showed in him.
In his place, Stellenbosch FC winger Devin Titus has been called up to bring depth to the attack. Titus, a talented and emerging force in the local league, will have the opportunity to make his international mark. Broos expressed his confidence in Titus, stating, “Unfortunately, Mayambela will not join us in camp, and he will be replaced by Devin Titus from Stellenbosch FC.”
Bafana Bafana’s Schedule and Preparations
The team convened in Johannesburg on Monday, kicking off their training sessions at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto. Their first game will be held in Kampala, where they’ll face Group K leaders Uganda at the Mandela National Stadium on Friday at 15:00. The return fixture will see Bafana Bafana host South Sudan at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium next Tuesday, marking their first game in the city in nearly a decade.
Broos’s squad announcement on Thursday highlighted a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, underscoring the strategic approach needed to secure a spot in the upcoming AFCON tournament. South Africa currently trails Uganda in the Group K standings, making the Kampala match crucial in determining their path forward.
Squad Dynamics and Strategic Moves
Broos’s decision to name Titus as Mayambela’s replacement shows his focus on maintaining a balanced squad, even as injury setbacks arise. Titus’s pace, versatility, and recent form for Stellenbosch FC make him a valuable addition to the side, especially in a match as critical as the one against Uganda.
Additionally, the return fixture against South Sudan will offer Bafana Bafana the home-ground advantage in Cape Town—a rare occasion that fans in the Mother City are eager to witness.
Crucial Fixtures and Group K Outlook
Facing Uganda, Bafana Bafana will have a chance to close the gap on the group leaders and potentially secure their qualification. Uganda has demonstrated strong form throughout the qualifiers, but Bafana Bafana has the depth and strategy to challenge them. Meanwhile, the match against South Sudan provides an opportunity for Bafana Bafana to consolidate their position and strengthen their claim for an AFCON spot.
With the recent adjustments, the Bafana Bafana squad remains poised and focused as they aim for AFCON qualification. South African fans will be hoping that Titus and the rest of Broos’s squad can rise to the occasion and bring home the points.
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