Hugo Broos has surprised many with a bold squad change, handing a young defender his first chance in crucial qualifiers.

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has explained the first call-up of Mamelodi Sundowns defender Malibongwe Khoza to the senior national team, highlighting the need to inject new blood following unforeseen absences in the squad.

 Broos revealed his final 23-man squad on Thursday ahead of Bafana’s crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

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The decision to include the young Sundowns centre-back is a clear indicator of Broos’ commitment to the team’s long-term regeneration strategy.

The inclusion of Khoza comes at a critical time for the national side as they prepare for two demanding fixtures that could significantly impact their path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

Broos confirmed that the absence of two key foreign-based defenders necessitated a strategic pivot, opening the door for the young domestic talent.

Broos stated that he identified Khoza as his next preferred option following the suspension of Siyabonga Ngezana and the injury to Ime Okon, both of whom play abroad for FCSB and Hannover 96, respectively. 

The coach further spoke about the successful integration of young players into the squad, explaining how their introduction has been crucial to maintaining the team’s high level of performance and ensuring future success.

“What really pleases me is the fact that the results have been coming even when we make the team younger,” said Broos on SABC1 as first quuoted by IdISKI.

He believes that the strategic introduction of youth is an ongoing process that should be capitalised upon whenever circumstances permit. The current situation with the suspended and injured players provided the perfect opening for Khoza’s debut call-up.

“So, we’re going on [every] moment we can do it. And I think now with the suspension of Ngezana and Okon’s injury, why not give him a chance and see how he reacts,” Broos added.

The Belgian coach also touched upon the positional deployment of the young defender. 

“Yes [he can play different positions] but with a guy young like him, you have to put him in his best position and I think that’s centre-back.” 

This confirms that Khoza is primarily viewed as a central defensive option, an area where Broos is keen to build depth.

Broos has consistently championed a policy of rejuvenation since taking the reins of Bafana Bafana, a strategy that has yielded positive results in recent international outings. 

The core philosophy is not simply to change personnel, but to introduce players who possess the requisite quality and hunger, irrespective of their age. The national team’s improved run of form suggests that this balance between experience and youthful vigour is working effectively.

Bafana Bafana will assemble next Monday before flying to Durban for their crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Warriors of Zimbabwe. 

The match is scheduled for Friday, 10 October at 18:00, and will take place at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium. This fixture, followed by the trip to face Rwanda, will provide a vital test for the squad’s depth, including the newest addition, Malibongwe Khoza. 

GOALKEEPERS: Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, Sipho Chaine

MIDFIELDERS: Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole, Bathusi Aubaas, Thalente Mbatha

DEFENDERS: Malibongwe Khoza, Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Thabang Matuludi, Samukelo Kabini, Nkosinathi Sibisi

FORWARDS: Thapelo Morena, Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule, Iqraam Rayners, Lyle Foster, Tshepang Moremi, Mohau Nkota, Relebohile Mofokeng.