CAN 2025: South Africa first to reveal final 25-man squad

Wednesday 03 December 2025 - 10:40

By: Sahili Aya

CAN 2025: South Africa first to reveal final 25-man squad

South Africa became the first country to announce its final 25-player squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), set to take place in Morocco from December 21 to January 18. The team features a strong presence of domestic league players, reflecting the depth of talent in the local championship.

Belgian coach Hugo Broos, in charge of the Bafana Bafana, unveiled the list ahead of his trip to Washington to attend the FIFA World Cup 2026 draw, according to the South African Football Association. In addition to the 25 selected players, three reserves—Mduduzi Shabalala, Iqraam Rayners, and Thabo Moloisane—will join the squad in Pretoria in the coming days to prepare for the continental tournament.

Broos explained the inclusion of reserves: “It’s crucial to have players ready in case of injuries or other unforeseen circumstances. They will train and maintain their fitness so we are prepared if needed.”

Drawn in Group B, South Africa will face Egypt, Angola, and Zimbabwe. The Bafana Bafana will kick off their campaign against Angola on December 22.

Following a dramatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, South Africa is aiming high for CAN 2025, with the podium as its main objective. Broos expressed confidence in his team’s preparation: “I hope we can match or even surpass our performance from the last tournament in December.”

For reference, South Africa secured third place in CAN 2024 in Ivory Coast, defeating the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties after a goalless draw.

The final squad includes goalkeepers Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele FC), and Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates). The defense features Khuliso Mudau (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Tylon Smith (Queens Park Rangers), Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates), Aubrey Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns), Khulumani Ndamane (TS Galaxy), Siyabonga Ngezana (FCSB), Samukelo Kabini (Molde FK), and Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Orlando Pirates).

The midfield consists of Teboho Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns), Bathusi Aubaas (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), and Siphephelo Sithole (CD Tondela). Attackers include Oswin Appollis (Orlando Pirates), Mohau Nkota (El Ettifaq), Tshepang Moremi (Orlando Pirates), Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates), Lyle Foster (Burnley FC), Sipho Mbule (Orlando Pirates), Elias Mokwana (Al Hazem), Shandre Campbell (Club Brugge), and Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates).