Khumalo Praises Broos's Inclusive Bafana Squad Selection

South African football legend Doctor Khumalo has voiced his approval of Hugo Broos's Bafana Bafana squad selection, particularly as the team pushes for 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.

Khumalo, present at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, witnessed Bafana Bafana's 2-0 victory over Lesotho, with goals from Relebohile Mofokeng and Jayden Adams securing the win. The team is now preparing for an away match against Benin on Tuesday, March 25th.

Bafana Bafana currently leads Group C in the World Cup qualifiers, having accumulated 10 points from five matches against opponents including Rwanda, Benin, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho.

Khumalo's Key Observations

Khumalo expressed his satisfaction with Broos's decision to integrate players from smaller clubs into the national squad, rather than solely focusing on selections from prominent teams.

Broos's recent squad included new additions such as Rodney Maphangule from Polokwane City FC, Vuyo Letlapa from Sekhukhune United, and Thabo Moloisane of Stellenbosch FC.

These selections were made to fill gaps left by injured players: Maphangule replaced Patrick Maswanganyi (Orlando Pirates), Letlapa stepped in for Aubrey Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns), and Moloisane filled the spot of Rushwin Dortley (Kaizer Chiefs).

"I must say that I’m so impressed with coach Broos’ selection. It’s been a while since we have seen from lower teams [small teams] making it to the Bafana Bafana squad," Khumalo told FARPost. "This goes down to show that Broos is actually talking to us and teaching us that we shouldn’t disrespect or undermine players from teams that are not that big in South Africa."

Confidence in New Players' Integration

Khumalo is confident that Maphangule, Letlapa, and Moloisane will seamlessly adapt to the national team environment, given their proven performances at their respective clubs.

"So, from where I’m seated, I think it wouldn’t be a problem to gel well with others because they know the DNA of South African football," Khumalo stated. "The reason why they have been chosen or properly selected ahead of those who couldn’t make it is because the technical team properly saw them playing in their respective teams. So, they liked what they saw; hence, the coach selected them for these games."