Bafana Bafana issue two late call-ups for crucial Rwanda tie

Stellenbosch FC duo Ashley Cupido and Thabo Moloisane have been drafted into the Honor sponsored Bafana Bafana squad for South Africa’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, set for Tuesday evening at Mbombela Stadium.

Cupido Returns to National Duty

Striker Ashley Cupido has earned a late call-up as an injury replacement, marking his return to the national setup for the first time since 10 June 2025. On that occasion, he scored his debut goal in a 2-0 friendly win over Mozambique. The 24-year-old has six senior caps and was part of the squad that competed in the 2024 COSAFA Cup on home soil in Gqeberha.

His inclusion comes at a pivotal moment, with South Africa sitting second in Group C and needing a win to secure automatic qualification for next year’s World Cup.

Moloisane Steps In for Mbokazi

Defender Thabo Moloisane also joins the squad, replacing the suspended Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who was sent off during Friday’s goalless draw against Zimbabwe in Durban, a result that dented Bafana’s qualification hopes.

This marks Moloisane’s second consecutive call-up, having previously stepped in for last month’s fixtures against Lesotho and Nigeria. He featured in the 3-0 win over Lesotho after Ime Okon withdrew due to injury but was not retained for the Nigeria match, where Mbokazi partnered Siyabonga Ngezana.

Against Zimbabwe, coach Hugo Broos opted for a centre-back pairing of Mbokazi and Nkosinathi Sibisi, despite Sibisi’s lack of club action. With Mbokazi suspended, Broos must now choose between Sibisi, Malibongwe Khoza, Khulumani Ndamane, and Moloisane for Tuesday’s must-win encounter.

Kick-off is scheduled for 18h00 on 14 October, with the match broadcast live on SuperSport.