Mbule Unleashed: The Midfielder Who Gives South Africa Their Edge
Sipho Mbule may not always dominate headlines, but heading into AFCON 2025 he is quietly emerging as one of Bafana Bafana’s most dangerous and decisive weapons.
His stunning wondergoal against Ghana in the AFCON send-off match was a reminder of what Mbule brings when confidence and freedom align. Striking cleanly from distance, he punished the smallest lapse in concentration — the type of moment that often decides knockout football. It was not a one-off. Even in South Africa’s goalless World Cup qualifier draw against Zimbabwe, Mbule repeatedly tested the Warriors with long-range efforts, at one point almost catching goalkeeper Washington Arubi completely off guard with a dipping shot from outside the box.
The numbers behind the graphics underline that threat. The Orlando Pirates man has taken eight shots this season, with a significant proportion coming from range — reflected in his shot map and modest xG (≈0.20). He is not a volume scorer, but he is a midfielder who chooses his moments, arriving late and striking when defences step off. That unpredictability is exactly what makes him dangerous.
At 27, Mbule remains one of the most naturally gifted midfielders South Africa has produced in recent years. He dictates tempo, unlocks compact defensive blocks and gives Bafana a creative edge few African sides can comfortably neutralise. His 90% pass completion, flawless long-ball accuracy this season, and ability to carry the ball through midfield allow South Africa to bypass pressure rather than absorb it.
AFCON Is About Moments — And Orlando Pirates Star Player Creates Them
Former Bafana midfielder Doctor Khumalo believes Mbule could be pivotal in Morocco, likening his role to classic playmakers who needed protection rather than restriction. In tight AFCON matches — physical, tactical and often decided by a single flash of brilliance — Mbule’s instincts, shooting from distance and intelligence between the lines could tilt the balance.
If Hugo Broos gives him freedom and structure around him, Sipho Mbule may well prove to be South Africa’s secret weapon as Bafana chase history once more.