Pitso Mosimane Names Ex-Kaizer Chiefs Defender Aden McCarthy in Bafana Squad

Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has named former Kaizer Chiefs defender Aden McCarthy in his preliminary 38-man squad for South Africa’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Kenya.

The 22-year-old defender, who now plays for Azerbaijani club Sabah FK, has earned recognition following his recent performances, including appearances in the UEFA Champions League. His inclusion is one of the notable developments in Mosimane’s latest selection.

South Africa will face Kenya, coached by former Bafana striker Benni McCarthy, on November 13 in Soweto before travelling to Nairobi for the return fixture on November 17.

McCarthy developed at Kaizer Chiefs before moving abroad to continue his career. His progress at Sabah FK has now earned him another opportunity to impress at international level as Mosimane evaluates his options ahead of the important qualifiers.

The preliminary selection also includes Lebohang Maboe, the midfielder who recently joined Chiefs. Maboe returns to contention after missing the previous national team camp because of a knee injury. His inclusion gives Mosimane another option in midfield as he prepares to finalise his squad.

Several other players have also returned to the national team setup. Chicago Fire defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha are among those recalled after missing the previous camp through injury. Luke Le Roux and Houston Dynamo forward Lyle Foster are also included in the preliminary selection.

Mosimane has additionally recognised players who have impressed at club level, including AmaZulu defender Nkosikhona Radebe, Richards Bay striker Nqaba Xulu and Pirates forward Boitumelo Radiopane.

The coach is expected to reduce the 38-man list before the final squad travels for the two matches. His selection reflects a combination of experienced internationals, returning players and emerging talents competing for places.

South Africa will approach the fixtures aiming to strengthen their position in the qualification campaign. With Kenya already guaranteed a place at the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts, Bafana will be looking to collect valuable points in their pursuit of qualification.

For McCarthy, the preliminary call-up represents an opportunity to demonstrate that his performances abroad can translate into a regular role with the national team. However, he must first secure a place in the final squad before he can feature against Kenya.

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