Bafana Bafana Fans Defend Lorch in Fiery Reaction to Bafana Squad
The release of Hugo Broos’ preliminary squad has ignited a storm of reaction across South African football circles, with many supporters unimpressed by the omission of certain high-profile names — particularly Thembinkosi Lorch.
As discussions around the final 23-man list heat up, social media has turned into a battleground of opinion, frustration and humour, as fans dissect Broos’ decisions and question the balance of the squad.
Mixed emotions — and a lot of confusion
Several fans believe Broos intentionally stacked the preliminary squad ahead of making big cuts, especially from Kaizer Chiefs.
One user joked that “Hugo Broos put Kaizer Chiefs right where we want them before the final announcement,” while another added that the coach “cannot wait to drop all Chiefs players.”
A recurring theme across reactions was confusion over certain selections. Cupido’s inclusion raised eyebrows, with @Kgzil1 tweeting:
“Cupido’s selection is confusing, but ke… madala knows better.”
The same sentiment was echoed about Themba Zwane, with fans baffled that the veteran midfielder made the cut despite patchy club form.
Lorch omission dominates the conversation
The absence of Thembinkosi Lorch triggered the strongest reaction of all.
@iamziyar captured the general mood:
“Mshishi shouldn’t be there. Lorch should have been called up instead.”
Others insisted Lorch’s CAF form with Wydad should have guaranteed him a place, calling the situation “painful” and branding some selected players “not even half as good.”
Another fan demanded:
“Remove Okon and include Lorch.”
Striker debate resurfaces
The long-standing issue of Bafana’s No.9 role drew plenty of criticism too.
Supporters warned that Foster and Makgopa aren’t clinical enough, with some calling for Iqraam Rayners to be reinstated.
“We don’t have a lethal striker,” argued @PatX2020. “Rayners is the only clinical No.9 we have.”
Another fan went further, saying Bradley Grobler remains the best finisher in the country despite his age:
“Age is just a number — pick Grobler please.”
Sundowns and Pirates dominance questioned
Some supporters joked that the squad already looks like a two-team selection. One user wrote:
“Twelve Pirates players and ten Sundowns… definitely winning this AFCON.”
Others predicted that once Broos trims the list, the final 23 will be even more heavily dominated by those two clubs.
Defensive worries also highlighted
Fans also expressed concern about the defensive unit, with several calling the backline “weak” without Grant Kekana.
One supporter warned bluntly:
“No Grant Kekana and Cupido — we aren’t making the quarter-finals with that defence.”
Optimism… but with a heavy dose of caution
Despite the frustration, a few fans urged calm, insisting the team remains strong enough to compete.
“We got this covered, South Africans. Don’t worry,” posted @leko_mvelase, offering rare positivity in the debate.
But the general mood remains tense as South Africa awaits Broos’ final 23-man squad — and supporters brace themselves for more surprises.