Broos Hints On Minutes For Nemtajela And Makgalwa

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says newcomers Masindi Nemtajela and Keletso Makgalwa could be given game time—depending on how the friendly match against Zambia unfolds.

South Africa face Chipolopolo in a friendly at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday, their final preparation match before heading to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, which runs from 21 December to 18 January 2026.

For Nemtajela of Orlando Pirates and Makgalwa of Sekhukhune United, the match presents a crucial opportunity to impress Broos. Both players are new to the national setup and are fighting to be considered for the final AFCON squad.

Adding to the pressure, this is Bafana Bafana’s last friendly before the continental showpiece in North Africa.

“That will depend on how the game goes,” Broos said when asked about the chances of Nemtajela and Makgalwa featuring against Zambia.

“Again, like I said a few minutes ago, I want to win the game. If we have an opportunity to give them some minutes—or more minutes—we will certainly do it.

“But I’m already happy that I called them up again. I’ve been able to watch them closely every day: their attitude, their work in training, their talent and qualities.

“The difference between the level they play at every week and what they are experiencing now in national team training… if you ask them, they’ll tell you they were surprised at first. The sessions were quicker, more technical.

“It has been good to give them this opportunity to train with us. We now have a better idea and better reports on them than we had before this camp.

“If the opportunity arises, and if the game goes well for us, they will certainly get some playing time.”