Ntseki banking on blended Bafana squad for CHAN charge
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BAFANA WITH A PLAN Bafana coach Molefi Ntseki . Picture: Sydney Mahlungu/BackpagePix
Image: Sydney Mahlungu/BackpagePix
Bafana Bafana are finalising preparations for the African Nations Championship (CHAN), which kicks off in just over a week across East Africa. South Africa begin their campaign against Algeria next Friday at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, under the guidance of former Kaizer Chiefs coach Molefi Ntseki.
The tournament, set to run from 2–30 August, will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. South Africa are in Group C alongside Guinea, Niger, and tournament hosts Uganda.
Ntseki heads into the competition with a well-balanced squad brimming with talent and experience. Several players are looking to use the tournament as a springboard to reignite their careers or take the next step in their development and here we look at five key players to watch:
Neo Maema (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Neo Maema of Mamelodi Sundowns. Picture: Muzi Ntombela, BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
Maema ended last season strongly, catching the attention of his club coach with solid performances during CHAN qualifiers. The 29-year-old midfielder rediscovered his form and thrived under pressure, even taking on captaincy duties as Bafana sealed their spot in the tournament.
With another important season ahead at club level, Maema will be aiming to use this competition as a launchpad to cement his place both at Sundowns and on the national stage.
Zakhele Lepasa (Free Agent)
Former Orlando Pirates star Zakhele Lepasa. Picture: Sydney Mahlangu, BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
After a tough spell at Orlando Pirates, Lepasa’s inclusion in the CHAN squad represents a fresh start. The striker struggled for consistent game time and eventually fell out of favour with coach Jose Riveiro, leading to his recent exit from the club.
Now a free agent, the 28-year-old will view the tournament as a perfect platform to remind everyone of his quality. When firing, Lepasa remains one of the top goal scorers in the country—and the tournament could be exactly what he needs to relaunch his career.
Malibongwe Khoza (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Malibongwe Khoza against Kaizer Chgiefs. | Itumeleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media
At just 21, Khoza is considered one of the brightest young defensive talents in South African football. The centre-back has already tasted continental football through his CAF Champions League appearances with Sundowns, showcasing his calmness and maturity under pressure.
CHAN presents a valuable opportunity for him to gain more experience and stake a long-term claim in the national team setup—especially with vacancies opening up in the Bafana backline.
Keagan Dolly (Free Agent)
Keagan Dolly of South Africa. Picture: Muzi Ntombela, BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
Dolly enjoyed a strong campaign at TS Galaxy last season, helping them to an impressive fifth-place finish. Despite that, the club opted not to renew his contract. Still, his performances proved that he has plenty left to offer.
The tournament could be the perfect opportunity for the 31-year-old to maintain match fitness and stay in the spotlight while seeking a new club. His experience and creativity could prove vital as Bafana navigate a challenging group.
Ramahlwe Mphahlele (Free Agent)
Ramahlwe Mphahlele joined AmaZulu from Kaizer Chiefs. Picture: Sydney Mahlangu, BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
Veteran defender Mphahlele brings a wealth of experience to the squad, having featured in multiple international campaigns for Bafana. After parting ways with AmaZulu, the 35-year-old remains without a club but is still highly regarded for his leadership and professionalism.
The tournament could offer him a valuable chance to contribute both on and off the field, while also showcasing that he still has plenty to offer prospective PSL suitors.