Mamelodi Sundowns defender Grant Kekana has left open the possibility of returning to the Bafana Bafana setup despite facing strong competition from a younger generation of centre-backs.
The 34-year-old was an important member of the South African squad that secured a third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. However, a combination of injuries and a dip in form subsequently saw him fall out of favour at international level.
Veteran defender missed two major tournaments
Kekana’s absence from the national team has extended beyond a temporary spell on the sidelines.
He was not selected for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and also missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaving questions over whether he would feature for Bafana again.
The emergence of younger defenders has made the path back even more challenging.
Young defenders strengthen Bafana competition
Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Olwethu Makhanya and Ime Okon are among the centre-backs who have established themselves in the current Bafana squad.
The trio’s inclusion highlights the changing profile of the national team’s defence, with the younger players competing for opportunities under head coach Pitso Mosimane.
Kekana nevertheless believes he can still contribute if another opportunity comes his way.
Kekana says he is feeling stronger
The Sundowns defender says his current physical condition gives him confidence that he can compete for an international recall.
“I’m feeling good and better than I’ve been in the long time,” Kekana said during an interview with SNAWA.
He acknowledged that selection ultimately rests with the coaching staff but insisted that he still believes a return remains possible.
“It’s just for me to continue working, I think there’s still a chance for me,” he said.
Kekana praises the current Bafana squad
While expressing his desire to return, Kekana was also careful to recognise the players who have already been selected.
He said the current squad members had earned their places and deserved an opportunity to represent the country.
“All the players that have been selected are fully deserving of their places,” he said.
Kekana also backed Mosimane to develop the group, describing the new-look squad as something worth watching.
“I think it’s going to be a nice time to watch them. Coach Pitso has got something to build,” he added.
Ngezana presents another challenge
Kekana is not the only experienced South African defender hoping to return to international football.
Siyabonga Ngezana, 29, is also seeking a place in the Bafana setup and is regarded as being ahead of Kekana in the current competition for selection.
That could make a recall particularly difficult for the Sundowns defender.
International comeback faces a difficult path
The current Bafana defensive options also underline the challenge facing Kekana. The centre-backs in the squad are reportedly all aged 23 or younger, with most playing their club football outside South Africa.
Kekana’s experience could therefore offer a different option, but he would need to maintain his form and fitness while competing with a group of emerging defenders.
For now, the veteran has made it clear that he is not closing the door on international football and intends to continue working towards another opportunity.
