Broos Leans on Experience as Bafana Bafana Prepare for Zambia Clash and AFCON 2025

With a new year of continental football approaching, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos isn’t taking any chances. The Belgian tactician is set to name his final 23-man squad this week for the upcoming international friendly against Zambia a crucial dress rehearsal before South Africa’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in Morocco next month.

Familiar Faces Set To Feature

Despite a preliminary list packed with 43 players, insiders suggest that Broos will stick with the core group that helped Bafana qualify for both AFCON and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This means fans can expect plenty of familiar names particularly from Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates to make the cut.

Broos’ loyalty to his regulars is understandable. Many of them have earned valuable experience competing in CAF tournaments, something the coach repeatedly calls “vital for growth.” Pirates and Sundowns’ deep continental runs last season proved the point, with both clubs showing the kind of composure and intensity that Broos wants to see replicated on the international stage.

The Risk Of Playing It Safe

Still, some critics argue that relying too heavily on established stars could backfire. With AFCON just weeks away, injuries or dips in form could leave the team vulnerable. A few fans on X have already voiced concern that “Broos’ comfort zone could come at the cost of discovery.”

However, the 73-year-old seems confident in his plan. The team’s camp will open on December 8 at the University of Pretoria’s High Performance Centre a base Broos has praised for its world-class facilities and focus-friendly environment.

Competition And Continental Readiness

The domestic calendar isn’t making things easier. Pirates, still smarting from missing out on the CAF Champions League group stage, will juggle Betway Premiership fixtures and the Carling Knockout Cup before AFCON. Sundowns, Stellenbosch, and Kaizer Chiefs, meanwhile, will continue their continental campaigns.

Broos believes this busy schedule works in his favour. “The more our players compete in Africa, the better they become,” he’s said in recent interviews. Indeed, continental experience has become the quiet backbone of Bafana’s recent revival.

Eyes On AFCON And Beyond

Expectations for Bafana are higher than they’ve been in years. Their third-place finish in the previous AFCON reignited national pride and belief that the team could finally challenge Africa’s elite again. With the 2026 World Cup in North America on the horizon, the Morocco tournament offers a perfect springboard.

South Africa’s last two World Cup appearances as hosts in 2010 and automatic qualifiers in 2002 ended in early exits. Broos wants to ensure that pattern changes.

Balancing Youth And Experience

Interestingly, Broos, who once championed introducing youth into the national setup, now appears cautious about rushing younger players into the senior fold. While South Africa’s U20 side, Amajita, impressed at the recent World Cup, he maintains that “only those who are truly ready will be called up.”

Still, a few emerging stars could sneak into the lineup to cover for out-of-form veterans. Among them, Thembinkosi Lorch now thriving at Wydad Casablanca has been tipped as one to watch. His experience in Morocco could prove invaluable on familiar soil.

Fans Waiting For The Reveal

As Broos prepares to reveal his 23-man squad, excitement and debate are already brewing among fans. Many are calling for a blend of consistency and innovation, hoping that South Africa’s AFCON campaign captures the balance between reliability and risk.

If Bafana are to make a statement in Morocco and reignite dreams of global relevance Broos’ squad choices this week could set the tone for what lies ahead.

{Source:IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com