Singh: Broos’ AFCON squad shows balance, But some concerns remain

Hugo Broos, on Monday, confirmed his final 25-man squad for Bafana Bafana ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, generating excitement among fans eager to see South Africa challenge for continental honours.

The national team has been drawn in Group B, opening their campaign against Angola on  December 22, before taking on Egypt on December 26. They will close the group stage with a clash against neighbours Zimbabwe on December 29, setting the stage for a competitive schedule.

Football analyst and strategist Sudesh Singh praised the squad’s composition, highlighting Broos’ balance between youth and experience as a major strength.

“One of the things he’s done efficiently is balancing the youth and the experience perfectly,” Singh said, noting that this mix could pay dividends both at AFCON and in preparation for the World Cup.

Singh specifically welcomed the inclusion of Tylon Smith, the QPR youngster, the Player of the Tournament at the recent Under-20 AFCON, will gain exposure to top-level international football even if he does not see much game time.

“I’m happy to see a young man like Tylon there who plays for QPR, he might not get game time but he’ll get the experience of being with Bafana at a high-level competition,” Singh said.

He also highlighted Broos’ forward-looking approach in squad selection.

“You can see that Hugo has one eye on the World Cup so you can see these decisions are well thought out and executed very well,” Singh added.

However, Singh expressed concern over some omissions, notably 35-year-old Themba Zwane.

“I think he should have been a part of that group, yes he’s been injured so he doesn’t have the game time but he came back for Sundowns in the Champions League,” Singh said.

“A player like that you need not just for his playing ability but his leadership and inspiration to the younger ones,” he added, emphasising Zwane’s value beyond the pitch.

Goalkeeping depth was another area Singh flagged.

“My other concern would be the goalkeeping because Ronwen is so far ahead of everyone else,” he explained.

He elaborated on the potential limitations of the backup options.

“You look at Ricardo Goss, he plays for a struggling Siwelele so you don’t know whether he’ll be that sharp. And also you look at Chaine, he’s doing well for Pirates but they’re not in the Champions League anymore, so you ask if he’d be sharp and ready if needed.”

Despite these concerns, Singh remained largely positive about the squad’s overall balance. He suggested the blend of youthful talent and experienced campaigners gives Bafana both competitiveness and an opportunity to groom players for the next generation.

As the team heads into the AFCON group stage, attention will quickly shift to preparation, tactics, and the integration of young players with established leaders — factors Singh believes could define South Africa’s success in the tournament and beyond. 

Bafana Bafana 25-man squad

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Thabang Matuludi, Tylon Smith, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Siyabonga Ngezana, Samkelo Kabini, Mbekezeli Mbokazi

Midfielders: Sphephelo Sithole, Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Bathusi Aubaas

Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Mohau Nkota, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Lyle Foster, Sipho Mbule, Elias Mokwana, Relebohile Mofokeng, Shandre Campbell