Take note, South Africa: How Bafana Bafana can bag the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title

The leadership of Hugo Broos has brought much-needed stability to the South African national team, with the Belgian tactician showing a clear vision and structure. Retaining him leading into Afcon would be vital to maintaining this continuity. 

His ability to instill discipline, tactical awareness and adaptability on the pitch has been a breath of fresh air for Bafana. Keeping him at the helm will allow him to build on the current momentum and fine-tune the squad, ensuring they peak at the right time for the tournament. His experience at international level and in African football will also provide the guidance needed for success in a competition of Afcon’s stature.

Tau’s form has fluctuated in recent years, but there is no doubting his potential when at his best. For South Africa to compete against the big guns on the continent, an experienced Tau will need to be included and must be firing on all cylinders. 

The talented forward’s creativity, pace and finishing ability make him one of South Africa’s most dangerous players. If the “Lion of Judah” can rediscover his form, he will be a key player in Bafana’s attack.

The Orlando Pirates star has shown great promise and is one of the exciting talents that could make a difference in the 2025 tournament. By giving him more opportunities in international matches, Bafana will not only help him mature as a player but also add to the depth of their squad. 

The experience gained through more caps will allow Mofokeng to play with greater confidence and composure, something that will be invaluable when faced with the pressures of Afcon. 

Zwane has been a stalwart for South Africa in recent years, but with his age and recovery from his Achilles injury becoming a factor, the time is ripe for finding his successor. Zwane’s creativity, vision and ability to dictate play have been invaluable for Bafana, and filling that void will be crucial. 

Broos has entrusted Patrick Maswanganyi with the opportunity to step into Zwane’s role, urging South Africans to show patience with the 26-year-old. If Maswanganyi keeps impressing Broos, the coming months will be crucial for him to solidify his place and fine-tune his game.

South Africa’s football talent is not limited to its domestic leagues. Players like Shandre Campbell, who is making waves in Belgium, should be brought into the fold.

By broadening the talent pool and casting the national team net wider, Bafana selectors can tap into players with international experience and the mental fortitude that comes with competing at a higher level. Integrating these young guns into the squad will not only enhance the quality of play but also foster healthy competition for places. 

Mabasa has earned a reputation as a prolific goal poacher for Orlando Pirates, boasting a strong physical presence and a knack for finding the back of the net - qualities that make him a potential asset for the national team. 

Despite his talent, he has yet to secure a regular spot in the Bafana setup. Broos, however, should consider giving Mabasa more opportunities to showcase his abilities on the international stage.

Equally important for Broos is the need to plan for the future of the goalkeeping department. While Ronwen Williams remains a reliable figure between the posts, blooding a backup goalkeeper is essential for long-term stability. 

Sipho Chaine and Sage Stephens are among the promising options and giving them game time in less critical matches could help build confidence and ensure a seamless transition when the time comes.

For the national team and Safa as a unit to truly succeed, it is crucial that the leadership within the organisation is restructured. 

Safa President Dr. Danny Jordaan is facing serious charges, including fraud and theft, which have cast a shadow over the administration of football in the country. His continued leadership has been a source of controversy and the organisation’s credibility has been severely undermined as a result. 

Removing Jordaan from his position and initiating a leadership overhaul within Safa could bring about much-needed reforms in South African football. A new, transparent and accountable leadership structure would help to focus attention on the development of the game and ensure that the national team has the necessary resources and support to succeed. 

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