Broos explains why Mbule Is the ideal replacement for Maswanganyi

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has clarified his decision to call up midfielder Sipho Mbule, who will replace his injured Orlando Pirates teammate Patrick Maswanganyi in the national squad.

Maswanganyi, affectionately known as ‘Tito,’ was sent home on Monday after sustaining an injury during Pirates’ dominant 3-0 win over Chippa United this past weekend. Despite his goal-scoring performance in that match, he failed a fitness test with the national team, prompting Broos to make a swift change.

Mbule, who was on the preliminary squad list, was brought in to fill the midfield void. The player has been in excellent form since joining Pirates on a free transfer from Mamelodi Sundowns in June 2025. In the new 2025/26 season, “Master Chef” has delivered commanding performances in the midfield, making seven appearances across all competitions for the Buccaneers.

Broos on Mbule’s Call-Up

Speaking at Bafana’s media open day, Broos explained the urgency behind the decision. “We had to tell Maswanganyi to go home. The reason we took that decision is that we are not sure if he will be ready for the game on Friday [against Lesotho],” Broos said.

“It’s very difficult when you are working in the national team, where you have only three or four days to prepare for the game. It’s easier when you are in a club because you have five weeks of pre-season.”

Broos justified his choice of Mbule, highlighting the midfielder’s qualities. “I think everybody agrees that he’s a player with many qualities,” he said. “I have to agree also that in the past years, we didn’t really see what is expected from a player like that, but he’s an experienced player and one of those who can play in Tito’s position.”

The coach noted that the team has been searching for a player with qualities similar to Themba Zwane, and he believes Mbule is the right fit. “It’s very difficult to find someone with those qualities, and I think with Mbule, we have the right player in the right position. I will have a little chat with him at training and tell him what we expect from him.”

Broos’s troops are set to face Lesotho on Friday, September 5, and then host Nigeria on Tuesday, September 9, in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Both Group C matches will be held at Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.

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