South Africa are intensifying preparations for the 2025 AFCON finals with an international friendly match against Chipolopolo at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday. The 1996 African champions' coach is using the match to fine-tune his squad as he edges closer to finalising the group he will take to the continental tournament. With competition for AFCON places still open, the game against the Copper Bullets is expected to bring out fierce performances from players eager to impress the coach. This could also be the last chance for some players to convince the Belgian tactician that they deserve a seat on the plane to Morocco.

Broos yet again found himself on the receiving end of intense criticism after he named his final squad to take on Chipolopolo in an international friendly game. The Belgian failed to include a single player from Naturena, even though some Amakhosi players have been doing well in the current season. Khumalo, a Bafana legend, has named a star he believes deserved a call-up because he says the player has been outstanding.

South Africa has a wealth of talent, with each player boasting their own blend of abilities. Some are fast, or technically gifted, or have a creative vision that can split a defence apart. Others are more athletic and can put in a crunching tackle or two. No matter what their skillsets are, there is one thing they all have in common: the price a football club is willing to pay for their services.

Despite never playing his club football outside South Africa, the Masandawana vice-captain has earned global recognition for his consistent performances between the sticks. His name now features among the world’s top goalkeepers, which is proof of his qualities. The custodian who hails from the Eastern Cape is part of the Brazilians squad that has players who helped the team participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

The recognition of a South African footballer by the world football governing body, especially one plying his trade in the Premier Soccer League, proves the quality of the domestic league. Such acknowledgement could show how the PSL has earned respect on the global stage and reinforces the local league's case as one of Africa’s most competitive football competitions.