EXCLUSIVE: Mbule Set To Miss World Cup As Broos And Ouaddou Lose Patience

Sportswire has learned that Orlando Pirates attacker Sipho Mbule faces slim chances of being included in the final Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Sources indicate that Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos is unhappy with Mbule’s recent conduct, which could ultimately cost the midfielder a place in the squad.

It is also understood that Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has grown frustrated with Mbule’s behaviour and recent performances at the club.

Broos reportedly held a meeting with Mbule in recent weeks in an attempt to help the player refocus. However, feedback from Ouaddou regarding the player’s situation at Pirates appears to have convinced the national team coach that Mbule may not feature in his World Cup plans.

Mbule’s future at Pirates also remains uncertain. The 27-year-old joined the Buccaneers on a one-year deal during the off-season after being released by Mamelodi Sundowns.

Sundowns had already grown frustrated with Mbule’s off-field conduct before loaning him to Sekhukhune United during the 2024/25 season. However, his stint there was cut short before Sundowns ultimately decided to part ways with the midfielder at the end of the campaign.

When Mbule arrived at Pirates, there was hope that he would revive his career and focus fully on his football. However, concerns about his professionalism have once again resurfaced.

The midfielder initially showed promise at the start of the season. He scored the decisive penalty as Pirates eliminated Sundowns in the semi-finals of the MTN8.

Mbule also impressed during a FIFA World Cup qualification match against Nigeria in Bloemfontein in September, where the two sides played to a goalless draw.

Nicknamed “MasterChef”, Mbule was later included in Broos’ squad for the Africa Cup of Nations held in Morocco three months ago, with expectations that he would provide creativity in the number 10 role.

However, the tournament did not unfold as hoped. Mbule started Bafana Bafana’s opening match, a 2-1 victory over Angola national football team, before being substituted in the 80th minute.

He was then left on the bench in the second group match, where South Africa suffered a controversial 1-0 defeat to Egypt national football team.

Broos restored Mbule to the starting lineup in the final group game against Zimbabwe, but he struggled to influence proceedings and was later replaced by his Pirates teammate Thalente Mbatha.

In the round of 16 clash against Cameroon, Mbule began on the bench and later came on for Relebohile Mofokeng. However, he was unable to inspire the team as Bafana Bafana suffered a 2-1 defeat and exited the tournament.

Mbule has also been left out of Bafana Bafana’s current preliminary squad for two international friendlies against Panama scheduled to take place in Durban and Cape Town later this month.

The camp represents the final opportunity for players to impress Broos before he announces his final World Cup squad in May. Players not included in the current setup — such as Mbule — are unlikely to make the final roster for the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, United States and Mexico.