Teboho Mokoena – Mamelodi Sundowns
The heartbeat of Bafana Bafana and arguably the most important player in the squad. Mokoena is a dynamic box-to-box midfielder with an eye for goal, exceptional set-piece delivery and the ability to control the tempo of a match.
He scored the decisive goal in the CAF Champions League final second leg in Rabat, firing in from the edge of the box in first-half stoppage time to seal Sundowns’ second continental title. One of the first names on Broos’ teamsheet.
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Thalenthe Mbatha – Orlando Pirates
A key figure in Pirates’ historic Betway Premiership title-winning season. Mbatha brings energy, pressing intensity and technical quality to the midfield – attributes that fit perfectly into Broos’ high-intensity system.
Sphephelo Sithole – CD Tondela
The most experienced European-based midfielder in the squad. Sithole has spent years developing in Portugal and now plays in the Primeira Liga following Tondela’s promotion. His experience in European football gives him a different technical profile to his domestic teammates.
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Jayden Adams – Mamelodi Sundowns
A cultured and technically gifted midfielder who has developed significantly under Rulani Mokwena and then Miguel Cardoso at Sundowns. Adams brings composure on the ball and the ability to recycle possession efficiently – qualities that will be vital against the likes of Mexico and South Korea.
Oswin Appollis – Orlando Pirates
Named as a midfielder in the squad despite operating primarily as a winger at club level. Appollis was one of the standout performers in the Betway Premiership this season, contributing 8 goals and 9 assists in his debut Pirates campaign.
His pace, directness and ability to carry the ball make him one of Bafana’s most dangerous attacking outlets.
Photo: Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images
