Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has finally made the difficult calls ahead of the FIFA World Cup, trimming his preliminary squad from 32 players down to the final 26 that will travel to Mexico City next week.
The Belgian tactician admitted it was one of the toughest decisions he has had to make since taking charge of the national team, as several players who helped South Africa during the qualification campaign were ultimately left out.
Broos officially confirmed his final squad during a special event at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, where Bafana Bafana were hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa ahead of their departure.
The veteran coach acknowledged the emotional weight of informing players that their World Cup dreams had been put on hold.
The six players who did not make the final cut are believed to have been informed privately before the public announcement was made.
Despite the painful omissions, the coach insisted he is confident in the balance of the squad selected for the global showpiece.
Broos believes the final group has the experience, discipline and fighting spirit needed to compete against some of the best nations in world football.
The announcement has already sparked huge debate among supporters, with fans discussing surprise omissions, injury concerns and whether Broos selected enough attacking firepower.
South Africans will now turn their attention to the team’s preparations in Mexico City as Bafana gear up for their biggest tournament in 16 years.
Full Bafana Bafana squad:
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, Sipho Chaine
Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Ime Okon, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Khulumani Ndamane, Aubrey Modiba, Samukelo Kabini, Thabang Motuludi, Olwethu Makhanya, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Bradley Cross
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Siphephelo Sithole, Jayden Adams
Attackers: Lyle Foster, Oswin Appollis, Iqraam Rayners, Tsepang Moremi, Rele Mofokeng, Evidence Makgopa, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko
Players dropped from the preliminary squad: Brandon Petersen, Thabiso Monyane, Lebohang Maboe, Broeklyn Poggenpoel, Patrick Maswanganyi
