WORLD SPORT

Shabalala Seeks Bafana Bafana Call-Up – Sportswire

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Mduduzi Shabalala, a midfielder for Kaizer Chiefs, has demonstrated his eagerness to take the chance to represent Bafana Bafana if chosen for the final squad in the forthcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.

The 21-year-old has made it into the preliminary squad selected by coach Hugo Broos, along with his teammate Bradley Cross.

Broos is set to finalize his squad during a press conference on Thursday, as Bafana Bafana prepares to compete against Lesotho and Nigeria at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein next month.

Shabalala has showcased remarkable form while playing for Amakhosi, participating in all three matches of the season and impressing with his skills, although he has yet to net his first goal of the season.

For Shabalala, donning the Bafana Bafana jersey is the realization of a long-held dream.


“I believe it’s a dream for everyone to play for Bafana or to represent their national teams,” stated Shabalala, who participated in the Bafana COSAFA Cup in June and experienced a defeat in the final against Angola.

“I think my focus needs to be on performing well in these upcoming two matches to enhance my chances of joining the national team.

“Being part of the national team is not an easy feat, but the encouraging part is that my club is performing exceptionally well this season.

“Thus, for me, it’s about fulfilling my responsibilities and being patient for the right opportunity. If this moment is it, then I believe everything will fall into place.”

With experience in representing the national team at various levels, including U17, U20, and U23, Shabalala feels ready for this chance.

The former captain of the Amakhosi DStv Diski Challenge team made his debut for Bafana Bafana this year in the COSAFA Cup in Free State under the coaching of Vela Khumalo.

Shabalala aims to leave a lasting impression in the final two league games against Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium on Wednesday and Golden Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday before the international break.