FIFA World Cup
By Sello Masilo
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has announced the squad to face Lesotho and Benin in FIFA World Cup qualifiers to be played on 21 and 25 March 2025, respectively.
The South African national team is set to resume its quest for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with crucial qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin scheduled for later this month. Head coach Hugo Broos has unveiled a 23-man squad, blending experienced campaigners with emerging talents, aiming to secure vital points in these encounters.
Goalkeepers:
• Ronwen Williams
• Ricardo Goss
• Sipho Chaine
Defenders:
• Sydney Mobbie
• Grant Kekana
• Thabo Moloisane
• Nkosinathi Sibisi
• Aubrey Modiba
• Siyabonga Ngezana
• Khuliso Mudau
• Fawaaz Basadien
Midfielders:
• Teboho Mokoena
• Jayden Adams
• Bathusi Aubaas
• Thalente Mbatha
Forwards:
• Oswin Appollis
• Iqraam Rayners
• Patrick Maswanganyi
• Relebohile Mofokeng
• Elias Mokwana
• Lyle Foster
• Thapelo Morena
• Percy Tau
Notable Inclusions and Returns
The squad sees the return of key players who have been instrumental in Bafana Bafana’s recent performances:
• Percy Tau: After a hiatus from the national team since June 2024, Tau makes a comeback. The 30-year-old forward recently transferred to Qatar SC in January 2025, following a challenging period at Al Ahly. His experience and flair are expected to bolster the attacking options.
• Lyle Foster: The prolific striker returns after recovering from an injury sustained during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Congo Brazzaville. Foster’s presence adds depth to the forward line.
• Jayden Adams: The midfielder has been recalled, indicating a reconciliation after previous disagreements with the coaching staff. Adams’ inclusion offers versatility in the midfield.
Injury Concerns
There are concerns regarding the fitness of captain and first-choice goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, who has been sidelined in recent weeks due to injury. His availability remains uncertain, and coach Broos may need to rely on backup goalkeepers Ricardo Goss and Sipho Chaine for the upcoming fixtures. 
Match Details
• South Africa vs. Lesotho
• Date: 21 March 2025
• Venue: Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane
• Kick-off: 18h00
• Benin vs. South Africa
• Date: 25 March 2025
• Venue: Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
• Kick-off: To be confirmed
Ticket Information
Tickets for the home fixture against Lesotho are available through TicketPro, priced at R70 for adults and R40 for children under 12. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early to support the national team in this crucial qualifier. 
Group Standings and Importance of Upcoming Matches
As of the latest standings, South Africa is positioned second in Group C, level on seven points with Benin, who are third. Rwanda leads the group on goal difference, also with seven points. Lesotho remains within striking distance with five points, while Nigeria and Zimbabwe occupy the bottom positions with three and two points, respectively. 
Securing victories in the upcoming matches against Lesotho and Benin is vital for Bafana Bafana’s aspirations to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. 
Preparation and Training Camp
The national team will commence their training camp in Johannesburg on 17 March 2025 before traveling to Polokwane on the same day. Following the home match against Lesotho, the team will depart for Abidjan on 22 March to prepare for the away fixture against Benin. 
Fan Engagement and Support
The South African Football Association (SAFA) has urged fans to show their support by filling the stadium for the home match against Lesotho. A strong home crowd is seen as a crucial factor in motivating the team and creating a formidable atmosphere for the opponents.
Broadcast Information
For those unable to attend the match in person, the game will be broadcast live on SABC, ensuring fans across the country can follow the action and support Bafana Bafana from afar. 
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