Mbokazi, Mbatha Return For Bafana Against Kenya For AFCON Qualifiers
Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has handed a surprise maiden call-up to Mamelodi Sundowns star Siyanda Ndlovu while welcoming back Chicago Fire’s Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha for November’s crucial 2027 AFCON qualifying double-header against Benni McCarthy’s Kenya.
Currently top of Group D following victories over Guinea and Eritrea, South Africa—now ranked 48th globally—host the Harambee Stars at Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday, 13 November, before travelling to Nairobi on Tuesday, 17 November.
Who Has Been Recalled to the Bafana Bafana Squad?
Mbokazi re-joins the national fold after missing the September and October international windows. The Chicago Fire defender last represented South Africa during their memorable 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in July before sustaining a club injury in Major League Soccer.
Similarly, Orlando Pirates playmaker Thalente Mbatha returns to midfield contention after recovering from a muscular strain that ruled him out of the previous camp.
Mosimane also confirmed the inclusion of Mamelodi Sundowns duo Ronwen Williams and Teboho Mokoena. Both key figures missed recent club fixtures under Miguel Cardoso but have been cleared by medical staff to lead the national team in this window.
Why Was Siyanda Ndlovu Included Despite Missing the Preliminary Squad?
The headline inclusion in Mosimane’s selection is Sundowns breakout performer Siyanda Ndlovu. Despite being omitted from the initial preliminary squad list, Ndlovu’s outstanding domestic form earned him a late, direct call-up to the senior national side.
Group D Standings and Schedule
South Africa enter the November window sitting comfortably atop Group D following an flawless start to their qualifying campaign. Mosimane’s men opened with a 2-1 victory over Guinea at Orlando Amstel Arena, followed by a dominant 5-0 win over Eritrea in Cairo and a 1-0 friendly win over host nation Egypt.
The national team will assemble in Johannesburg on Sunday, 8 November, with local-based PSL players arriving first, followed by international stars on Monday.
