Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has revealed the three qualities that convinced him to call Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma up to the national team.
Mosimane named the 24-year-old forward in his 30-man squad for South Africa’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea.
Mbuthuma returns to the Bafana set-up for the first time since June 2025, when he featured in an international friendly against Mozambique.
The former Richards Bay FC striker endured a difficult start to the season, initially struggling to score or provide assists. His performances attracted criticism from sections of the Pirates fan base, but coach Abdeslam Ouaddou continued to back him, highlighting his contribution beyond goals.
That faith has started to pay off. Mbuthuma has scored twice in the Betway Premiership and contributed assists in the MTN8, helping the Buccaneers reach a fifth successive final in the competition.
WHAT MOSIMANE SEES IN MBUTHUMA
Explaining his decision, Mosimane pointed to Mbuthuma’s goalscoring ability, physical presence and hunger.
“I don’t know what other people are saying, and I don’t know why people brand him as an enemy,” Mosimane said at SAFA House in Nasrec on Thursday.
“I think he’s a national team player. He scores goals for Orlando Pirates. I think you’ve seen him scoring a few goals at Orlando Stadium. Maybe he’s not scoring as much as you want, but he does score, and he’s got a physical presence also, and he’s hungry. Give him a chance.”
Mosimane’s squad also features several fresh faces, including Mbuthuma’s Pirates teammate Lebone Seema and Durban City midfielder Brooklyn Poggenpoel.
Mamelodi Sundowns stars Tashreeq Matthews, Fawaaz Basadien, Bathusi Aubaas, Cassius Mailula and Thapelo Morena also made the cut.
Lebohang Maboe is Kaizer Chiefs’ sole representative, while overseas-based players Puso Dithejane, Shandre Campbell and Luther Singh have also been included.
Mosimane has indicated that young players will be given an opportunity to prove themselves as he begins shaping his Bafana squad.
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