Hugo Broos has named his final 25-man Bafana Bafana squad for the Africa Cup of Nations later this month – and in doing so, may have offered the clearest indication yet of who he trusts to lead South Africa into next year’s 2026 World Cup in North America.

The biggest surprise was the omission of Themba Zwane. The 36-year-old playmaker, long considered one of Broos’ most trusted performers, but misses out after a year badly interrupted by injuries. He  only returned to action for Mamelodi Sundowns over the weekend after months on the sidelines.

However, Broos has spoken openly about the need to transition Bafana’s midfield, saying repeatedly that Zwane’s age meant the team required a younger long-term creator. On Monday in Auckland Park, that shift became official, with Sipho Mbule earning selection ahead of the veteran.

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Broos named a group dominated by Sundowns and Orlando Pirates players – the heartbeat of the national setup in recent years.

There was good news for Lyle Foster, with the Burnley striker returning to the Afcon stage after missing the last edition due to mental-health concerns. Rising stars Shandre Campbell and Tylon Smith also cracked the final squad for the first time, signalling Broos’ intent to blend youth with experience.

CAF now allows teams to pick up to 27 players, though only 23 can be match-day eligible. Broos opted for 25.

Bafana will face Angola, Zimbabwe and Egypt in Group B, opening their campaign on 22 December against Angola. On standby are Mduduzi Shabalala, Iqraam Rayners and Thabo Moloisane.

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Final AFCON squad

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss
Defenders: Mudau, Mbokazi, Sibisi, Modiba, Kabini, Matuludi, Ngezana, Ndamane, Smith
Midfielders: Mokoena, Mbatha, Sithole, Aubaas
Forwards: Makgopa, Foster, Mofokeng, Nkota, Mbule, Moremi, Appollis, Mokwana, Campbell