Stellenbosch FC goalkeeper Sage Stephens has revealed the emotional moment that followed his call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad for this month’s matches against Uganda and South Sudan.
Stephens received his maiden national team call-up when coach Hugo Broos included him in his final 23-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Uganda in Kampala on November 15 and South Sudan in Cape Town four days later.
The goalkeeper made the cut against expectations and as they prepare for the crucial matches, he has opened up on how special it was to receive the national team call-up, admitting that it is yet to sink in, while crediting his good work for the recognition.
Tearful maiden call-up for Sage Stephens
“The first person I spoke to was my wife. The reaction? Actually, I couldn’t believe it. Funny enough, as I said before in my interviews, I said the same thing, like, I can only control my performances. Ultimately, the decision lies with the coach and as we all respect, the coach has done a magnificent job,” the 33-year-old told SAFA media.
“When I saw my name there for the first time officially, I was very emotional. I don’t want to say it aloud, but I had to choke back a few tears, you know, because it’s a very special moment for me, it’s a big achievement for me personally, and I’m just so grateful for it.”
Another player who is thrilled to be in the fold is Orlando Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa, who has seen his great club form rewarded with a return to the national team.
Will Makgopa return to the Bafana starting XI?
Makgopa last played for Bafana Bafana at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, when he started all seven games, as South Africa went on to finish third and he is keen to repay the faith Broos has in him.
“The only thing I can say is, you don’t want to disappoint such a person who has faith in you,” Makgopa said. “So, the only thing that you have to do for him is just to push. When he gives you a chance, you just have to work for him and do whatever you have to do.”
South Africa can seal qualification to back-to-back tournaments if they get two points from their matches against Uganda and South Sudan.
