Broos Swings the Axe: Chiefs Missing as Youthful Bafana Squad Named for AFCON
Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has named a bold, forward-looking 25-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations — and the big talking point is the absence of Kaizer Chiefs players, along with the exclusion of veteran playmaker Themba Zwane.
Zwane, who only returned to action last weekend after months out injured, was deemed too much of a fitness risk for a demanding tournament. Broos said the technical team required “fully conditioned players who can maintain intensity every three days,” making the 35-year-old an unfortunate casualty of the final cut.
Also missing is Kaizer Chiefs’ Mduduzi Shabalala, who drops to standby. Broos explained that the youngster’s inconsistency and Chiefs’ unstable form made it difficult to include him ahead of Orlando Pirates’ Relebohile Mofokeng, who returns in excellent shape after injury.
One of the biggest surprises is the selection of young European-based duo Shandre Campbell and Tylon Smith, both 20, whom Broos views as long-term investments. “They won’t be pressured to play big minutes, but this AFCON experience is vital for their growth,” the Belgian said.
Another notable inclusion is Elias Mokwana, who has been operating as a central striker on loan in Saudi Arabia — a role Broos believes adds tactical flexibility.
The squad is dominated by Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates players, a reflection of both clubs’ strong CAF form and tactical structure. Bafana open their AFCON campaign against Angola on December 22 in Marrakech.