Thirteen South African players based abroad have been called up for the latest Bafana Bafana squad, reflecting a growing trend of local football talent making their mark overseas in regions like America, Europe, and Africa.
Bafana Bafana Back in Action
This month, South Africa will go head-to-head with Kenya in two crucial fixtures as part of the qualification process for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Bafana Bafana will host Kenya’s Harambee Stars at Orlando Stadium on November 13, 2023, with kickoff scheduled for 18:00. The return match is set for November 17, although specific details for that fixture are yet to be announced, as per the South African Football Association (SAFA).
Currently, South Africa leads its qualification group, making this month’s matches critical for their campaign. Kenya, having automatically qualified as a co-host for the tournament, will be vying for the remaining spot.
Head coach Pitso Mosimane has included several overseas-based players, as reported on the SAFA website.
*Players are listed in the order they appear on the Bafana Bafana squad list.
Samukele Kabini
Samukele Kabini has been showcasing his versatility as a dependable defender at FC Molde in Norway. He played a pivotal role in the club’s 2-0 victory over KFUM Oslo last month, maintaining a solid defensive lineup. Kabini also scored during a crucial 2-1 win against Guinea in September.
Olwethu Makhanya
Olwethu Makhanya is enjoying an impressive season with Rangers FC in Scotland. The defender played a key role in preserving a clean sheet during the 1-0 victory over Aberdeen in the Scottish League Cup semi-finals on October 31. Former Rangers coach Ally McCoist has encouraged Makhanya to remain with the team for the long haul.
Ime Okon
Ime Okon is striving for a consistent spot within Hannover 96 in Germany. While he has recently remained on the bench for the last five games, he remains a vital figure for Bafana Bafana, most notably scoring a crucial goal in the qualifiers against Guinea.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi
Returning from a protracted thigh injury, Mbekezeli Mbokazi has quickly regained his form with Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer. He has been consistently rated among the top defenders in the league since his return.
Aden McCarthy
Aden McCarthy currently represents Sabah FK in Azerbaijan. He performed admirably during a UEFA Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund, scoring despite the team’s 2-1 loss.
Sphephelo Sithole
Sphephelo Sithole, nicknamed “Yaya,” is elevating his profile with Tondela CD in Portugal’s second-tier league. Although he has mostly been a substitute recently, he managed to score during South Africa’s impressive 5-0 win over Eritrea.
Luke Le Roux
Since transferring to Cercle Brugge from Portsmouth, Luke Le Roux has been making waves. He has already made four starts for his new team and contributed an assist in a closely contested Belgian Pro League match against Anderlecht.
Relebohile Mofokeng
Relebohile Mofokeng has found his footing at Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, scoring five goals and providing four assists this season, suggesting that he is living up to the investment made in him earlier this year.
Thapelo Maseko
Thapelo Maseko is currently sidelined due to an injury sustained while playing for FC Copenhagen in Denmark. His return is anticipated around mid-November, putting his availability for the upcoming matches in jeopardy.
Luther Singh
Luther Singh has signed with AEL Limassol in Cyprus, where he is making a significant impact on the left wing, helping his team maintain a strong position in the league with two goals and two assists.
Devin Titus
A rising star at MAS Fès in Morocco, Devin Titus has successfully notched two assists in the Botola Pro, leading to his call-up for the Bafana squad after an extended absence from the national team.
Lyle Foster
Lyle Foster is seeking to rejuvenate his career on loan with Houston Dynamo in the MLS. After facing criticism for his previous performances, he has already found the net since joining in September.
Puso Dithejane
Puso Dithejane is making strides to secure a starting position with Chicago Fire. He has scored six goals across various competitions since his arrival, including a decisive goal in a friendly against Egypt.
Which South African football exports have made the most significant impact abroad?
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