Khothatso Leballo

South Africa find themselves in seemingly challenging Group B at the continental tournament alongside Egypt, Angola and Zimbabwe. Navigating through this pool will be crucial if they are to reach the knockout rounds. They are determined to improve on their previous campaign, where they secured a bronze medal. However, doubts have surfaced after an experienced coach questioned the squad selected by the Belgian tactician. That scrutiny has added extra pressure on the team to prove their capabilities on the big stage.

The 20-year-old centre-back is on his way to North America despite widespread expectations that he would secure a move to Europe. His move has raised questions about how it could influence his international prospects as Bafana Bafana prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Looking at the bigger picture, he will be hoping the move does not jeopardise his chances of making Hugo Broos’ final squad for the global football competition.

The Buccaneers coach has applauded his players for dominating the South Africa final squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament. The Soweto giants have provided nine players to Hugo Broos' 25-member selection that will head to the continental competition. This sees The Ghost taking over from the Brazilians who used to dominate the national side at the last edition.

GOAL gives you the details to follow Madandawana's visit to Bloemfontein to face Siwelele on Wednesday. The Brazilians will be at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium as they push to return to the top of the Premier Soccer League standings. Orlando Pirates currently occupy top spot but the Tshwane giants have an opportunity to end the year on a high with victory in Mangaung.

GOAL gives you the details to follow Amakhosi's Premier Soccer League trip to Gqeberha to face the Chilli Boys on Wednesday. Currently fifth on the table, the Soweto giants still have the chance to finish the year at the top of the table if they win their last two PSL games, but that is also dependent on how their nearest rivals perform. They come up against the relegation-haunted Chilli Boys, who are at the foot of the standings.

The Buccaneers continue to produce a high number of quality players through their developmental structures. While some of these youngsters have successfully broken into the first team, several others have been sent out on loan to gain valuable experience. However, one of their players has now left the club.

The Denmark-based player continues to be overlooked by South Africa coach Hugo Broos despite his consistent performances overseas. Even when the 27-year-old wing-back hits top form for his club, the 2017 AFCON-winning trainer shows little trust in including him in his plans. It has become increasingly clear that Broos does not hold him in high regard, leaving many to question what more the player must do to earn a call-up.

Mamelodi Sundowns return to Premier Soccer League action after nearly a month after making way following the Carling Knockout semi-finals, the FIFA break and then focusing on CAF Champions League commitments. The Brazilians were knocked off the PSL top spot by Orlando Pirates last weekend. However, they can reclaim top position with a win over Siwelele FC at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium on Wednesday and head into the AFCON break firmly in control of the title race.

Chiefs are spreading their wings by taking some of their home games beyond Gauteng and into other provinces. The Soweto giants are confident in their nationwide appeal, knowing they attract huge crowds wherever they play. Their widespread following ensures that even on “away” turf, they enjoy overwhelming backing from their supporters across South Africa.

After finishing third at the last edition of the continental competition, South Africa will be looking to do better. Their Belgian coach has named a squad that will do duty in Morocco and there are a few surprises. This squad is also expected to form the core of Hugo Broos' side to go to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Another PSL club has shaken up their technical team, resulting in the dismissal of a seasoned tactician. The coach, a highly respected figure in South African football, finds himself out of a job before the campaign even reaches its halfway stage. His exit underscores the mounting pressure on teams to produce results in an increasingly unforgiving environment.

The Buccaneers are threatening what had become the order of the league as Masandawana dominated season in, season out. The Brazilians' record-extending Premier Soccer League titles could be stopped by the Soweto giants who have presented their title credentials as determined contenders. Making the Ghost favourites to be crowned champions is how they have reached this stage of the season without allowing the Tshwane giants to pull away on the standings. They are currently on a 10-match unbeaten run in the league, a bold statement about their seriousness of the biggest trophy in South African football.

GOAL gives you the details to follow the Cape Winelands side's trip to Zanzibar to face their Tanzanian opponents in this CAF Confederation Cup Group C match at Amaan Stadium on Sunday. After starting their campaign in this phase of the tournament with a 1-0 victory over AS Otoho d'Oyo, Stellies are out to build on that and reclaim the lead in this pool. Steve Barker's men have been struggling on the domestic front but doing well on the continent.

Amakhosi go into their next assignment having endured a run of two consecutive Group D matches without a win. After being edged 2-1 by Al Masry in their opening away fixture, the Soweto giants then survived a home scare against the White Knights, who head back home feeling robbed and have taken their issues with the continental football governing body.

The 23-year-old centre-back has been unfortunate to suffer a long-term injury just when he had established himself as a key figure for both club and country. As a result, his continental ambitions for this year have taken a heavy knock, halting what had been some steady progress. Still, he remains determined to fully recover and represent his country on the global stage.

The Bafana Bafana legend arrived in the East African country in March 2025 fresh from a stint at three-time European champions Manchester United. Taking charge of the Harambee Stars marked his first venture into national team management. However, a disastrous result earlier in November has placed him under intense scrutiny. Now, the Cape Town-born football great faces growing pressure to steady the team and prove he can thrive in international coaching.

GOAL gives you the details to follow Amakhosi's CAF Champions League hosting of the Egyptian giants at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday. The Soweto giants opted to take this Group D match to Limpopo instead of their home in Gauteng. They are coming from 2-1 defeat by Al Masry in their first group game and their opponents Zamalek are on a high after edging ZESCO United 1-0.

Amakhosi are trying to navigate the demanding terrain of continental football while also grappling with a challenging fitness situation in their squad. It has become a real test of their squad depth and the character of players as they push through some tough assignments in that state. Their domestic rivals Mamelodi Sundowns have grown accustomed to enduring such demands every season, setting the standard Amakhosi now hope to match.