James Freemantle

Broos has selected a group of predominantly core, key regulars, but there are some surprises as South Africa looks to go one better than their semi-final berth at the 2023 AFCON. There are no Kaizer Chiefs players in the 25-man group, while a few youngsters have cracked the nod.

The Premier Soccer League has seen some big names over the years. A good chunk of them have moved to pastures new, in all corners of the globe, for massive transfer fees. Given his enormous talent, Mbokazi could fetch a figure as big as anything we've ever seen when he eventually seals a switch to the United States MLS with Chicago Fire.

It's been 13 long years since the Sea Robbers were crowned champions of South Africa. However, there's a growing feeling that 2025/26 can spell the end of that long league title drought as Ouaddou's charges look fresh, relatively injury-free and with their eyes firmly focused on the prize they desperately crave.

'Master Chef' has done his thing in several kitchens across the Premier Soccer League, but never really settled anywhere long enough to make a lasting impression. We all know the talent is there, but is the former South Africa youth international able to put in the hard yards to produce the consistent performances needed for club and country in a critical year for South African football?

Coach Hugo Broos is turning this team into an African powerhouse, mostly using a group of close-knit players plying their trade in the Premier Soccer League. However, the Belgian boss will need to start integrating a handful of superstars based abroad if he wants to squeeze the maximum amount of juice out of this talented, improving squad.

South Africa is entering a Golden Era as they prepare to participate in the 2025 AFCON and 2026 World Cup after a long barren spell of failures and disappointments. With Banyana Banyana and Amajita winning silverware, and Amajimbos showing promise and the PSL title race tightening up, it's easy to get excited about local soccer right now.

The Buccaneers appear to be the complete package in 2025/26, boasting a superb defensive spine, top-quality options off the bench in all positions, and tactical versatility. The new Moroccan boss has also shown an ability to juggle his resources effectively as the fixtures come thick and fast.

The striker is a proven scorer at the Premier Soccer League level, but he still can't nail down a regular place for the Buccaneers or Bafana Bafana this season. Is the 29-year-old ready to seek a new adventure? If so, will other key players follow him out of the exit door if their game time also diminishes?

Amakhosi caretaker bosses have seen the team's goals and results dry up at a critical juncture of the 2025-2026 Premier Soccer League campaign. The Nedbank Cup holders are desperate to climb the table after finishing in a lowly ninth position last season. Is their squad depth enough and who should be a nailed on starter?