Pitso Mosimane, the head coach of South Africa, began his tenure with a perfect record in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, winning against Guinea and Eritrea. However, the start carried clear indications that Mosimane’s plan for the team threatens the future of several veteran players with Bafana Bafana.
Mosimane relied on a young squad in both matches, which includes only a limited number of players over the age of thirty. With Mosimane’s focus on younger players, five individuals may find themselves facing a difficult task.
Players facing uncertainty under Mosimane
Grant Kekana
According to the South African website The South African, Grant Kekana, Mamelodi Sundowns’ defender, is among the prominent names likely to face difficulty returning to the national team.
The player missed two major tournaments recently, during which time a group of young defenders emerged, led by Olwethu Mahanya, Emi Okon, and Mbekizeli Mbokazi.
Percy Tau
Percy Tau’s international future remains questionable. The 32-year-old player has been without a club for several months, reducing his chances of returning to the national team.
Mothebi Mphala
Mothebi Mphala was a key element in South Africa’s journey to the bronze medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, but injuries kept him away from the national team during the recent period.
With increased competition in the defensive line and the emergence of new young talents, Mphala may find himself facing a tough challenge to return to the squad.
Nico Mobee
Nico Mobee was one of the names Hugo Broos relied upon during his early years with the national team, before his appearances gradually decreased after 2023.
As Broos relied on Khuliso Mudau in the right-back position, Mobee’s opportunities declined. Competition has now intensified further with the emergence of Kamogelo Sebelebele and Thabang Matuludi.
Lebo Mothiba
Mosimane is still searching for a striker capable of consistently leading South Africa’s attack, but Lebo Mothiba may not be the first choice in the upcoming phase.
The player has suffered from inconsistent goal-scoring form with Mamelodi Sundowns, and his advancing age may reduce his chances given the technical staff’s direction towards building a younger team.
