Mosimane faulted for including Pirates & Sundowns stars in Bafana squad: ‘I don’t understand’

Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has been questioned regarding the inclusion of Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma and Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane in his squad to play in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.

South Africa will host Guinea on September 26 at the Orlando Amstel Arena before playing Eritrea away four days later.

Mbuthuma has been inconsistent at Bucs since joining from Richards Bay at the beginning of the 2025/26 season. However, it seems he has finally settled, having managed two goals and as many assists in the nine games he has played across all competitions.

Furthermore, Zwane has been in and out of Masandawana squad, struggling for regular football. It explains why former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has questioned Mosimane’s decision to have the duo in his team.

I don’t understand Mosimane’s decision

“The bringing of the likes of Mbuthuma, me I don’t understand. I love coach Pitso and I love his identity. The way his team plays, I love him,” he told Metro FM.

“So, coach Pitso bringing Mbuthuma, I don’t understand why; that’s why many people will ask questions. I love Themba Mshishi. He’s done well for himself individually, but it’s unnecessary for me. He’s not playing for Sundowns.

“You’re bringing him in for what? I don’t understand. I know they’ve got a good relationship they come a long way with coach Pitso and Mshishi.

“But currently, you’re saying you’re judging players based on their current performance, and then Mshishi where’s he going? He’s not even playing at Sundowns regularly. So, it doesn’t make sense as well,” Khanye concluded.