South Africa Name Preliminary Squad for World Cup Qualifier Against Zimbabwe And Rwanda

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has announced a 36-man preliminary squad ahead of next month’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

The squad is expected to be trimmed down to 23 players next week.

Mamelodi Sundowns duo Khuliso Mudau and Thapelo Morena duo are key returnees to the national team fold.

Their inclusion boosts Bafana Bafana’s defensive depth. However, fullback Zuko Mdunyelwa misses out due to injury.

Orlando Pirates’ Thabiso Monyane who is currently sidelined, is a surprise inclusion.

Monyane was drafted in as a late replacement for the injured Mdunyelwa in June’s 1-1 draw against Nigeria and caught the eye with his performance off the bench.

South Africa face Zimbabwe on 10 October 2025 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban (3 pm kick-off).

Before hosting Rwanda on 14 October 2025 at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit (6 pm).

FIFA disciplinary case looms

Bafana Bafana’s preparations come under the shadow of looming disciplinary action from FIFA.

The world governing body has formally written to the South African Football Association (SAFA) over the alleged fielding of an ineligible player during their March qualifier against Lesotho.

Midfielder Teboho Mokoena featured in that game despite serving a suspension after picking up two yellow cards in earlier matches.

A breach of FIFA rules that should have forced him to sit out.

If the charges are upheld, South Africa, who currently sit top of Group C, would be docked three points and three goals from the Lesotho fixture.

Additional sanctions, including fines or player suspensions, could follow.

The outcome of the disciplinary process is expected to have a major bearing on Bafana Bafana’s qualifying campaign.

A scenario that has heightened the stakes ahead of October’s double-header.