Bafana Bafana’s squad for the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) is an exciting mix of experienced players and emerging talent.
One particularly intriguing detail is that nearly half of the selected players are currently free agents. Out of the 25 players chosen, 12 don’t have contracts, featuring standout names like Zakhele Lepasa, Keagan Dolly, and Thabiso Kutumela.
Also making waves in the lineup are Sundowns midfielder Neo Maema and his impressive teammates Terrence Mashego and Ntando Nkozi.
This unique situation will offer these players a brilliant chance to shine on a continental stage, potentially securing new contracts while proudly representing their nation.
With the CHAN tournament focusing solely on players active in their home leagues, it’s a stern test for many footballing nations, including Bafana Bafana as they gear up for a thrilling challenge in Group C. They’ll be up against hosts Uganda, alongside Algeria, Niger, and Guinea—what an exhilarating lineup! Scheduled from August 2 to 30, the tournament will be held across the vibrant host nations of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
SAFA’s Technical Committee has appointed Molefi Ntseki as the head coach of the CHAN team, and he is brimming with enthusiasm.
“We have assembled a team that will represent South Africa in the CHAN tournament,” he expressed confidently.
“We’ve carefully selected players who embarked on this journey with us. We can’t wait for the tournament and are determined to give our all.
“A big thank you to the clubs and coaches who made it possible for our players to join the CHAN squad” The excitement is building as the team started to train in Johannesburg on Friday before flying out to Uganda on August 3.
They’ll kick off their tournament against Algeria on August 8 at the iconic Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. As a fantastic start, the tournament’s opening match will see co-host Tanzania take on Burkina Faso in Dar es Salaam—let’s get ready for some amazing football action
Full squad:
Goalkeepers: Samukelo Xulu, Andile Mbanjwa, Kopano Thuntsane
Defenders: Thamsanqa Masiya, Keagan Johannes, Wayde Jooste, Malibongwe Khoza, Kwandakwensizwa Mngonyama, Terrence Mashego, Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Kaketso Majadibodu
Midfielders: Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, Neo Maema, Menzi Masuku, Momelezo Dlambewu, Matlhari Makaringe, Rowan Human, Tebogo Tlolane, Ntando Nkosi, Luvuyo Phewa, Thabang Molaoa, Siyanda Msani
Forwards: Zakhele Lepasa, Thabiso Kutumela, Keagan Dolly
