Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has made an interesting tactical declaration on Kaizer Chiefs star Mduduzi Shabalala, identifying his most ideal playing position.
Broos called up the talented attacking midfielder as a replacement for Relebohile Mofokeng ahead of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Bafana will conclude their 2026 campaign with matches against Zimbabwe on Friday at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban and against Rwanda on Tuesday at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit.
These games are crucial, especially after Bafana were docked three points for fielding a suspended player, Teboho Mokoena, in the March clash against Lesotho.
Broos believes that “if there’s a team that deserves to go to the World Cup, it’s South Africa.” However, he will have to do without the services of Orlando Pirates midfielder Mofokeng, who suffered an injury during the weekend Carling Knockout Cup match against Siwelele FC on Saturday.
The veteran Belgian coach has also identified the optimal position to deploy Shabalala within the team. ‘Shaba’ has played various roles in the Chiefs team, including second striker, left winger, and as a ‘10’.
HUGO BROOS REVEALS MDUDUZI SHABALALA’S BEST POSITION
“I think if you see the games of Chiefs, I think that Mduduzi is someone who has an action. He knows where to run when there is a space. For me, his best position is behind the striker. So if we use him, it will be in that position,” explained Broos.
The 21-year-old will compete with the likes of Sipho Mbule for a place in the starting line-up. Mbule impressed against Lesotho and Nigeria and looks likely to get the nod against The Warriors and Amavubi Stars.
Bafana, now in second place after losing three points, will hope to win both games. Group toppers Benin face Rwanda in Kigali and Nigeria in Uyo, and will need to win both matches and maintain their superior goal difference to qualify for the World Cup as group C winners.
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