Mbule returns, two Chiefs stars in as Broos names Bafana squad for Lesotho and Nigeria

Sipho Mbule is among a number of players who have earned a return to the Bafana Bafana squad after his inclusion in the provisional team for next month’s World Cup qualifiers.

Bafana Bafana, who top their 2026 World Cup qualifying group with 13 points from six matches, five more than Rwanda and Benin, and six ahead of Nigeria, will clash with Lesotho away and the Super Eagles at home in September, looking to seal an early ticket.

To do that, they will need a strong squad and coach Hugo Broos has named his provisional squad of 48 which has some players that had not received call-ups for years.

Who are the surprise names?

One of them is Orlando Pirates midfielder Sipho Mbule, who has been named into the team for the first time since September 2021, while Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane makes a return to the squad despite suffering a fresh injury that will keep him out for at least two months.

Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs, who have started the season in fine fashion, finally have representation in the national team with left-back Bradley Cross and midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala making the provisional squad.

There are also notable youngsters such as Khulumani Ndamane of TS Galaxy, Mbekezeli Mbokazi of Pirates, German-based Ime Okon and Mohau Nkota, who now plays for Saudi club Al-Ettifaq, who have been included.

South Africa will play away to Lesotho on September 5 before hosting Nigeria three days later at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.