Kaizer Chiefs defender Monyane not giving up on his AFCON dream

South African players are fighting to be included in the Bafana Bafana team that will represent the country in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations to be played in Morocco from December 21 to January 18.

Mzansi have been placed in Group B alongside Egypt, Angola and Zimbabwe with two top teams guaranteed a place in the knockout phase. Hugo Broos’ men claimed a bronze in the 2023 edition staged in Ivory Coast, explaining why they hope to go all the way this time around.

Kaizer Chiefs defender Thabiso Monyane is hopeful of being included in the South Africa squad for the biennial competition. The former Orlando Pirates right-back is one of the quality full-backs in the Premier Soccer League, but injuries have limited him from realising his full potential.

If the defender proves his fitness in the next couple of weeks, Broos might consider having him in his travelling party.

I have won Bafana Bafana jersey with pride

“It’s been quite good representing the country at all junior national team levels,” Monyane told iDiski Times.

“It has shaped me to who I am because now I’ve got a grasp and feeling of how to play African football and European football. It has prepared me well, as I am using those lessons in the CAF competitions. That experience has really helped me a lot, and as you know, African football moulds you as a footballer.  

“Going on the continent has given me exposure and a taste of how it is to play in the heat; in different countries, and the physicality of the opponents is different from what we are used to here at home. It has really shaped me. And, if you recall, at the [Under 20] World Cup, we played against Portugal, who had the likes of Rafael Leão.

“Whenever I’ve worn the Bafana jersey, I wore it with pride.

 “You’re not just representing yourself – you’re representing millions of South Africans out there.” he added.

Up to me to grab the opportunity

“I’m still hopeful [of making the AFCON squad]. I know what I can bring to the team. I’ll keep working, keep pushing – because you never know,” he added.

“There will always be competition, especially looking at our league, which is one of the biggest in Africa.

“I look at myself and say I am competing with the best, and to be seen as one of the best right backs in the country is a blessing. And I know the competition is tight, but as long as I know I can improve and I believe in myself, I know that everything is possible.  

“The Bafana opportunity is there; it is up to me to grab it. I know who I am competing against, and I am working hard towards getting there. And that’s just how it is.” Monyane concluded.