Percy Tau returns, Stellenbosch's Sage Stephens finally recognised as Hugo Broos names Bafana Bafana preliminary squad for 2025 Afcon qualifiers vs Uganda and South Sudan

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named his provisional squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against Uganda and South Sudan.

South Africa first visit the Cranes for the November 15 match before including their Group K campaign against South Sudan at home four days later.

Percy Tau returns to the national team after asking to be excused in October while Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha is back after missing out the last time with an injury.

Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens has been called out for the first time while Mothobi Mvala who was injured is back.

Veteran midfielder Themba Zwane and Lyle Foster are out with fitness issues.

Broos has called up Stephens, Yamela Mbuthuma of Richards Bay and Polokwane City midfielder Ndamulelo Maphangule for the first time.

Maphangule's teammate Thabang Matuludi featured in the 2024 Cosafa Cup but is yet to play for Broos' side while Sipho Mbule returns to the national side.

Ashley Cupido has also previously played in the Cosafa Cup and African Nations Championship but not for the senior side.

Stephens has been recognised as Broos finally succumbed to pressure to consider him after some outstanding performances for Stellenbosch in recent seasons.

Bafana need just a point out of the available six in Group K to qualify for the Afcon finals.

With Uganda having already sealed a place at the tournament, only one place is up for grabs in this pool.

Broos' men are currently second in Group K with eight points and four more than Congo who still have a chance of qualifying as bottom-placed South Sudan are put of contention.

Safa have already announced that the match against South Sudan will be played at Cape Town Stadium.

Gauteng fans have often been slammed for the low attendance of national team games in that province, especially at FNB Stadium.