A significant portion of the Bafana Bafana squad is set to return for crucial international fixtures this November.
The South African national team is gearing up for two encounters against Kenya, both home and away, as part of the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Concerns regarding travel fatigue are rising for head coach Pitso Mosimane as the team prepares for these critical matches.
Bafana Bafana’s Returning Players
On November 5, Mosimane finalized the squad composition in anticipation of facing the Harambee Stars.
The following overseas players have been selected:
- Samukele Kabini (FC Molde, Norway)
- Olwethu Makhanya (Ranger FC, Scotland)
- Ime Okon (Hannover 96, Germany)
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire, USA)
- Sphephelo Sithole (Toldena CD, Portugal)
- Lyle Foster (Houston Dynamo, USA)
- Puso Dithejane (Chicago Fire, USA)
- Relebohile Mofokeng (Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, Belgium)
- Luther Singh (AEL Limassol, Cyprus)
Bafana Bafana is currently at the top of their qualifying group, and the inclusion of these overseas players will be pivotal.
The first match against Kenya is scheduled for November 13 at Orlando Stadium, kick-off set for 18:00, according to the South African Football Association (SAFA).
Details regarding the return leg in Kenya on November 17 are still pending confirmation.
Mosimane is expected to announce the starting lineup a day or two prior to the home fixture.
Impact of Travel on Overseas Players
With limited time between club commitments and national team duties, Mosimane is likely evaluating the travel implications on his players.
Reports suggest that a training camp could be organized this month, although specifics remain unconfirmed.
Typically, clubs release their players five days in advance, particularly when long-distance travel is involved.
For instance, Houston Dynamo concludes its MLS regular season on November 8, raising questions about Lyle Foster’s timely arrival for training.
Royale Union Saint-Gilloise also has a Belgian Pro League match this coming Sunday, making Relebohile Mofokeng’s participation critical as his team currently sits second in league standings.
This situation may result in Bafana Bafana players having just a week or less to adapt upon joining the national setup.
The ability to manage player rotation during the clashes against Kenya could be significantly impacted as a result.
Kenya has already secured their position as co-hosts for the 2027 AFCON, leaving only one qualification spot to contend for in the group.
Will Bafana Bafana’s overseas players be adequately prepared for the opening match against Kenya?
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