Masindi Nemtajela, a breath of fresh air for Bafana Bafana | OneFootball

Something new for Bafana Bafana

Masindi Nemtajela/@citizen

Having qualified for the 2026 World Cup and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Hugo Broos is already focused on these two major tournaments. The South Africa head coach is testing as many players as possible to ensure he has the best squad available for these crucial competitions.

With this in mind, the Belgian tactician has called up a new face for the friendly against Zambia, scheduled for November 15 in Port Elizabeth. This match is a key part of Bafana Bafana’s preparations for the upcoming 2025 AFCON.

Broos has selected Masindi Nemtajela, who is set to make his debut for the national team. The 24-year-old central midfielder from Orlando Pirates in the domestic league has been turning heads with his ball-winning ability and sharp distribution. This season, he’s featured in 10 matches, including 2 in the CAF Champions League.

It’s worth noting that the South African coach initially announced a provisional squad of 43 players before narrowing it down to 23. Among those cut was 21-year-old right winger Puso Dithejane, who has been in scintillating form for TS Galaxy FC in the Betway Premiership, notching 3 goals and 4 assists in 11 games this season.

South Africa will compete in Group B alongside Angola, Egypt, and Zimbabwe at the 2025 AFCON, set to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.