Pitso Mosimane Explains Why Aden McCarthy Missed Bafana Cut — Mbokazi Gets His Chance

Pitso Mosimane has explained why Sabah FK defender Aden McCarthy was excluded from Bafana Bafana’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, despite the player recently making an impression by scoring in the UEFA Champions League.

The decision has sparked debate among South African football supporters, particularly with Bafana preparing for important qualifying matches against Kenya.

Mosimane acknowledged McCarthy’s impressive performances in Europe but explained that the decision was influenced by the technical team’s desire to give Lyle Mbokazi another opportunity to represent the national team.

“He scored in the Champions League,” Mosimane told journalists during his squad announcement briefing. “But we need to give Mbokazi an opportunity to be back with the national team.”

His explanation suggested that McCarthy’s omission was not necessarily a reflection of poor form, but rather a selection decision aimed at providing Mbokazi with another chance to establish himself in the squad.

Football Association spokesperson Thabo Setlhodi confirmed that the announced squad had received official approval from the South African Football Association (SAFA). However, Bafana team management did not release an additional written explanation beyond Mosimane’s comments.

McCarthy joined Sabah FK during the January transfer window after attracting positive attention through his performances in South Africa. His involvement in Champions League football has further raised his profile, making him one of the few Bafana-eligible players competing at that level in Europe.

The 24-year-old Durban-born defender previously represented South Africa at under-23 level before earning senior national team recognition under Mosimane’s predecessor.

Meanwhile, Mbokazi will now have an opportunity to impress the coaching staff during the upcoming national team camp. His performances could prove important as he competes for a place in the team.

McCarthy’s exclusion has nevertheless divided supporters, with some questioning why a player featuring in Europe’s biggest club competition has been left out of the national squad.

Mosimane’s decision has therefore placed additional attention on Mbokazi, who will be expected to make the most of the opportunity, while the debate over McCarthy’s omission is likely to continue among Bafana supporters.

https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2118381333554528371

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