EXPLAINED: Why Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has to start Orlando Pirates trio Relebohile Mofokeng, Evidence Makgopa and Thalente Mbatha in 2025 Afcon qualifier against Uganda

As the international break kicks in, Bafana Bafana stands on the brink of a defining chapter in their 2025 Afcon journey.

With two games left in Group K, the stakes are clear but daunting: Uganda, perched at the top with 10 points, holds the advantage, while Bafana Bafana, with 8 points, is close but must claw its way forward.

Coach Hugo Broos now faces a pressure-filled mission, tasked with making bold lineup decisions to secure the all-important win in Kampala.

But this isn't just about points—it’s about reclaiming national pride, advancing South African football, and laying the groundwork for the future.

The trip to Mandela National Stadium is no ordinary fixture; it’s a contest against a formidable opponent, with home-ground advantage and a history of fierce, physical play.

Winning in Kampala could be the morale boost Bafana needs, setting up an ideal stage for their final qualifier against South Sudan in Cape Town.

But can Broos unlock the formula to break down Uganda’s defense, manage the fatigue of travel, and overcome the inevitable crowd pressure?

There are numerous questions hanging over his head: who will lead the attack, which creative playmaker can take the midfield reins in the absence of Themba Zwane, and will the defense hold strong without Kekana?

Each selection Broos makes could shape the narrative not only of this qualifier but also of Bafana’s long-term journey.

This moment presents an opportunity for Broos to dig deep, make difficult calls, and maybe even take a risk on younger, hungrier players who can offer the energy and resilience needed to topple the Cranes.

As fans hold their breath, the spotlight on Broos and his squad intensifies.

With Morocco on the horizon, these games aren’t just another part of the schedule—they’re a battle for Bafana’s place on the continental stage, and they could well be a preview of South Africa’s footballing future.

GOAL takes a look at what the Belgian can do in the upcoming games.

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Midfield Creativity Without Zwane
The absence of Themba Zwane leaves a significant gap in Bafana Bafana's lineup, particularly in creativity and playmaking—a void not easily filled.
With Zwane’s experience and vision missing, many eyes are now on the potential replacements who can take on his role.
One name that’s gaining traction is Relebohile Mofokeng, the young, dynamic midfielder who has been making waves at club level.
Known for his ability to create scoring opportunities and even find the back of the net himself, Mofokeng has proven he can handle high-stakes moments.
Bringing him into the squad could inject fresh energy and unpredictability into Bafana’s midfield.
The big question now is whether Hugo Broos will take the leap and give the youngster a chance to step into the spotlight and bring something unique to the team

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Injuries And Squad Depth
Bafana Bafana faces a mounting challenge as injuries hit key players like Yaya Sithole, Grant Margerman, Themba Zwane, and now Mihlali Mayambela.
The latter's recent withdrawal adds to the team’s misfortunes, leaving the frontline in need of fresh options.
Thalente Mbatha and Bathusi Aubaas have shown their capability in the midfield, each scoring in previous qualifiers, and will now be counted on to maintain the team’s stability in the middle of the park.
In a bid to bolster the attack, Stellenbosch's Devon Titus has been called up as Mayambela’s replacement.
Titus has shown promise at club level, and his ability to bring extra firepower could be the spark Bafana needs in these high-stakes encounters.
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Center-Back Solutions
Grant Kekana’s exclusion from Hugo Broos’ squad has raised eyebrows, especially given his solid performances alongside Mothobi Mvala at Mamelodi Sundowns.
The two have formed a dependable partnership at club level, showcasing defensive resilience and an understanding that has helped Sundowns dominate domestically.
However, Broos appears unconvinced, opting for other options at center-back despite Kekana’s availability and fitness—a point highlighted by Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi, who confirmed Kekana is not carrying any injury.
With Kekana out, Broos may instead turn to the Mvala and Rushwin Dortley combination, a pairing that could provide a mix of experience and youthful energy.
This decision places pressure on Broos to justify his choice, especially if defensive stability becomes an issue in these upcoming qualifiers.
It’s a bold move, and all eyes will be on the defense to see if Bafana’s new pairing can hold up under pressure and maintain the same level of composure seen at Sundowns

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Bold Selection
Facing Uganda away from home is a tough test for Bafana Bafana, especially given Uganda's physical style and strong home-ground advantage.
Coach Hugo Broos will need to select players who can not only withstand the intensity but also maintain possession under high pressure.
It's been two decades since South Africa last won in Uganda, adding to the weight of this fixture as Bafana aims to secure a key victory.
Encouragingly, the recent record between the two sides favours Bafana, who have won three times and drawn twice in their past five encounters.
Still, Broos might consider a bolder approach by incorporating younger, more dynamic players who can bring fresh energy and adaptability to counter Uganda’s rugged approach.
Players with agility and a willingness to press forward could disrupt Uganda's game plan and give Bafana an edge in Kampala.
This match is pivotal not only for Afcon qualification but also as a statement of intent for Broos’ squad, proving they can overcome difficult challenges on the road.
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Who Leads The Attack?
As Bafana Bafana prepares for a tough away clash, the choice of striker could be the difference-maker in breaking Uganda's defence.
Coach Hugo Broos must decide whether to rely on a familiar face or gamble on fresh talent.
Evidence Makgopa’s return to the squad in place of Lyle Foster could hint at Broos’ strategy for the qualifiers.
The Orlando Pirates man, was a standout performer in the last Afcon campaign, often trusted to lead the line under pressure.
His physical presence, ability to hold up play, and knack for finding the net make him a strong candidate to spearhead the attack.
But with Uganda’s formidable home advantage, Broos may weigh whether a new approach is needed to surprise the opposition.
If Makgopa can step up with the consistency and sharpness he showed before, he might just be the answer to Bafana’s quest for goals.
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Regulars Lacking Club Minutes
The return to regular playing time for Khuliso Mudau and Teboho Mokoena at Sundowns, along with Thalente Mbatha’s recovery from injury and steady form, has strengthened Bafana Bafana’s lineup heading into the qualifiers.
The lack of club minutes for key players was a major concern in the previous international break, so seeing these players back in action is reassuring for Coach Hugo Broos.
Adding to the optimism, Evidence Makgopa is not only fit but also finding his scoring touch at Pirates, which adds a new dimension to the Bafana attack.
With most of the squad now regulars at their clubs, the team benefits from enhanced fitness, match sharpness, and tactical awareness, all crucial for high-stakes games.
This consistent club play builds both physical and mental resilience, which will be invaluable as Bafana tackles Uganda and South Sudan.
Regular match play also promotes stronger team cohesion, as players bring club-level intensity to the national squad.
Altogether, this depth and readiness could make the difference in securing the points needed for Afcon qualification.
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Games Shape Afcon Prospects
Bafana Bafana’s crucial path to qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations hinges on securing vital points in both Kampala and Cape Town.
A win in Uganda will not only boost morale but also strengthen their position at the top of Group K, bringing them one step closer to their goal of qualifying for Morocco.
With just two games remaining, Broos’ side cannot afford to drop points, especially against a tough Uganda side on their home ground.
The final qualifier in Cape Town against South Sudan provides an ideal opportunity for Bafana to seal their qualification and finish strong.
After their third-place finish in Ivory Coast, Bafana’s eyes are set on another crack at the title, with a more confident and cohesive squad.
Achieving positive results in these two games would give Bafana a solid foundation as they aim to make a deeper run in the 2025 tournament.
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