Sundowns stars miss out as Broos names Pirates-heavy Bafana squad
- Martin T
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Hugo Broos has announced his 41-man preliminary Bafana Bafana squad for the two June international friendlies, featuring a strong contingent of 11 players from Orlando Pirates, while Mamelodi Sundowns players were not selected.
Riding a wave of success, Bafana Bafana recently qualified for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, adding to their impressive form. The 2023 AFCON bronze medalists are also making significant strides in their bid for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, currently sitting atop Group C of the qualifiers with 13 points after six games.
Their recent camp saw them secure maximum points, defeating Lesotho 2-0 at home on March 21st and then replicating that scoreline against Benin away a few days later.
In an effort to maintain their upward trajectory, Bafana will play two international friendlies next month as vital preparation for the decisive World Cup qualifiers.
On Thursday, Broos unveiled his preliminary squad, featuring a significant contingent of 11
Pirates players, including Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Deano Van Rooyen.
Notably absent are players from Sundowns, who will be competing in the FIFA Club World Cup next month.
"Broos’ charges will play against Tanzania and a second opponent to be confirmed in the coming days," said SAFA. "The first match against Tanzania will be played at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo, on Friday, 6 June 2025 (kick off is at 19h30).
"The team will report for camp in Johannesburg on Sunday, 1 June 2025 and then travel to Polokwane on the same day. Mamelodi Sundowns players were not selected as they will be participating in the FIFA Club World Cup to be played in the United States of America from 14 June – to 13 July 2025."
BAFANA BAFANA SQUAD
