Kaizer Chiefs Captain Yusuf Maart Included in Bafana Preliminary Squad
Kaizer Chiefs captain Yusuf Maart has been included in Bafana Bafana’s preliminary squad for the upcoming international friendlies in June. This follows his standout performances in the heart of midfield for Amakhosi.
Maart, who recently netted the decisive goal in the Nedbank Cup final against Orlando Pirates, has caught the attention of national team head coach Hugo Broos. The national team is preparing to resume their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in September. Therefore, Maart will be eager to solidify his place in the final squad through his form and leadership.
Pirates Lead the Selections as Sundowns Miss Out
Due to Mamelodi Sundowns’ involvement in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States next month, their players were excluded from selection. This opened the door for other clubs to be more heavily represented. Orlando Pirates have taken full advantage. A total of 11 Buccaneers feature in the 30-man preliminary squad, making them the most represented club in the team.
Among those called up are youngsters Mohau Nkota and Simphiwe Selepe, both promoted to the first team this season. Selepe only made his senior debut earlier this month. However, he has already made a strong enough impression to earn a potential national debut.
Promising Talent and Notable Omissions
Teen sensation Mbekezeli Mbokazi, another Pirates academy product, has also received his maiden call-up. Meanwhile, Shandre Campbell of Club Brugge recently made the bench during their UEFA Champions League clash against Aston Villa. He has also been included, further demonstrating Broos’ intent to explore emerging talent.
With regular captain Ronwen Williams unavailable due to Sundowns’ Club World Cup duty, the goalkeeping responsibilities are expected to fall to Pirates’ Sipho Chaine. He will compete with Chiefs’ Bruce Bvuma, Chippa United’s Darren Johnson, SuperSport United’s Ricardo Goss, and Renaldo Leaner from Sekhukhune United.
Kaizer Chiefs’ Representation
Aside from Maart, Kaizer Chiefs youngster Mduduzi Shabalala is also part of the provisional list. The pair will be looking to make their mark on the international stage and offer some much-needed spark to the national team setup.
Preparing for a Bigger Picture
Broos has used this opportunity to expand his options ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations later this year. Considering the possibility of injuries or unavailability of key players, the Bafana technical team is keen to test a broader pool of talent during these friendlies.
As the squad continues to evolve, all eyes will be on who makes the final cut. Everyone will be watching whether Yusuf Maart can translate his club form into a consistent role for the national team.
Bafana’s June Opponents Yet to Be Confirmed
While the exact opponents for the June fixtures have not been revealed, the selection gives an indication of the future direction under Broos. With Sundowns players out of the picture for now, this is a vital window for fringe and emerging players to make a lasting impression.
Also read: George Matlou Yet to Discuss Future with Kaizer Chiefs
