Earlier this month, Hugo Broos unveiled a preliminary squad comprising 36 members in anticipation of two international friendly matches.

However, in a surprising turn of events, none of the three Kaizer Chiefs players initially called up made the final cut for the 23-man squad, as confirmed on Wednesday, August 30th.

Exclusion of Msimango, Hlanti, and Mmodi

This development has seen Given Msimango, Sfiso Hlanti, and Pule Mmodi, all representing Kaizer Chiefs, omitted from the final roster despite their initial inclusion in the larger preliminary squad.

Their exclusion raises questions about the selection process and the criteria used to determine the final squad.

Preparation for Upcoming Matches

With the squad now set, Bafana Bafana is gearing up for their upcoming fixtures.

On September 9, 2023, they are scheduled to face Namibia at 15:00 local time, followed by a match against DR Congo on September 12 at 17:00.

These friendly matches serve as crucial preparation for two major tournaments: the Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire in January next year and the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, set to commence in November.

Venue Announcement

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has announced that both of Bafana Bafana’s international friendlies against Namibia and DR Congo will be hosted at Orlando Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg.

This decision brings the excitement of international football closer to fans and underscores the significance of these matches in the team’s preparation.

Looking Ahead to Upcoming Tournaments

As a reminder of the broader football calendar, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States of America.

The qualifiers for this prestigious tournament are slated to kick off in November of this year, extending through to 2025.

Additionally, the Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024.

These tournaments represent significant milestones in international football, and the preparations undertaken by Bafana Bafana will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

In conclusion, the omission of Kaizer Chiefs players from the final 23-man squad raises questions and intrigue as Bafana Bafana prepares for vital upcoming matches in their quest for success in the Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The choice of Orlando Stadium as the venue for these friendlies adds an extra layer of excitement, bringing the national team closer to their fans.

All eyes are now on South Africa’s national team as they aim to make their mark in these important competitions.

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