AFCON dreams fading? Broos delivers grim update on Themba Zwane

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has cast doubt on star midfielder Themba Zwane’s chances of featuring at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Belgian tactician delivered a grim assessment, citing the veteran’s prolonged battle with injuries.

Themba Zwane Mshishi’s Race Against Time

The Mamelodi Sundowns captain, affectionately known as ‘Mshishi’, hasn’t played for the national team since October 2024 and has seen minimal action for his club recently due to persistent fitness issues. While the 36-year-old has resumed training at Chloorkop, he is reportedly not yet participating in the full schedule with the rest of the squad.

With the Bafana Bafana camp set to commence on December 8, a mere 13 days before the tournament begins in Morocco, Zwane is racing against a ticking clock. Given his recent history of being injury-prone, this short timeframe makes it extremely difficult for him to reach the peak fitness required for the high-intensity demands of a continental competition.

Broos Weighs In

Speaking on the precarious situation, Broos didn’t mince words about the prospect of leaving one of South Africa’s most experienced players behind.

“Themba is injured for a moment again. I don’t know if Themba will not play. In the first two weeks, I think we have to forget him, he didn’t play for all season,” Broos stated. “So I think for AFCON it will be very difficult for Themba, very difficult. But yes, I still hope for next year, but we will see.”

Despite the coach’s clear reservations, Zwane himself is reportedly adamant he will be fit to join the squad for AFCON.

Broos is known for his strict selection policy, recently sidelining Orlando Pirates sensation Relebohile Mofokeng and returning Sundowns defender Grant Kekana from his final squad to face Zambia in the upcoming international friendly. This shows the high standard of fitness and form the coach demands, making Zwane’s inclusion highly unlikely if his recovery stalls.