With the countdown to the World Cup submission deadline ticking, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has set social media buzzing after teasing what looks like the core of Bafana Bafana’s squad.
In a slick, kasi-flavoured video released on Monday, SAFA didn’t reveal names the usual way. Instead, they went full street style, dropping player nicknames and letting fans connect the dots.
“Sho bazalwane! Stand up and make some noise for majita holding it down for the nation!” the post read.
“When these gents step onto the pitch, it’s nothing but pure diski magic and Kasi flava… Let us re-introduce you to the boys who will represent us kwi World Cup.”
And just like that — the guessing game began.
The big names (and big Surprises)
Headlining the list is captain Ronwen “Ronza” Williams, alongside the tried, tested andtrusted soldiers in Teboho Mokoena and Khuliso Mudau and Evidence Makgopa.
The squad as mentioned in the video are:
Goalkeepers: Ronwen “Ronza” Williams, Ricardo “Gumede” Goss, Renaldo Leaner
Defenders: Khuliso “Sailor” Mudau, Nkosinathi “Bhodela” Sibisi, Mbekezeli “TLB” Mbokazi, Khulumani Ndamane, Thabang Matuludi, Aubrey “Dibadiba” Modiba, Ime Okon, Samukele Kabini
Midfielders: Siphephephelo “Yaya” Sithole, Teboho “Mrembula” Mokoena, Jayden “Grootman” Adams
Attackers: Thapelo Maseko, Themba “Mshishi” Zwane, Tsepang “Rea Vaya” Moremi, Rele “President yama2k” Mofokeng, Oswin “1011” Appollis, Bongokuhle Hlongwane; Lyle Foster, Evidence “Ngwana Sesi” Makgopa
Notable absentees raise eyebrows
But it’s who’s missing that has tongues wagging. Orlando Pirates trio of Sipho Chaine, Sipho Mbule and Thalente Mbatha are not on the list.
And surprisingly, there is no Iqraam Rayners or in-form Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen.
But with only 22 players named, one spot remains — and all signs point to a midfield addition.
Mind games or final draft?
Is this SAFA playing mind games? Or is this almost the final squad heading to the World Cup?
One thing is clear: the debate has already started. And with just over a month to go, every name — and every omission — is bound to be debated.