Captain Williams returns! Broos names Bafana preliminary squad for pivotal Afcon qualifiers

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has unveiled a preliminary squad of 32 players as South Africa gears up for a critical showdown in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers against Congo next month.

The anticipation is palpable as the national team prepares to host Congo at the picturesque Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on 11 October at 19:00.

Just four days later, 15 October, the team will embark on a challenging away fixture at the Stade Alphonse Massemba-Débat in Congo, set to kick off at 18:00 (SA time).

These two matches are more than just fixtures; they represent a crucial opportunity for Bafana to solidify their path to Afcon qualification - set to be staged in Morocco next year 21 December - 18 January 2026.

After an encouraging previous international window where they managed to secure four points - drawing 2-2 against Uganda and clinching a thrilling 3-2 victory over South Sudan - the stakes have never been higher.

Broos knows that every point counts in this fierce competition, and his latest squad selection reflects a strategic approach to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.

Bafana captain Ronwen Williams is making a welcome return to the national team after missing the call-up for the recent matches against Uganda and South Sudan.

Following shoulder surgery in the off-season, Williams has regained full fitness with his club, Mamelodi Sundowns.

Coach Hugo Broos understands how crucial the 32-year-old goalkeeper is to the senior men's team, having been sorely missed during the last FIFA international break.

In addition to Williams, the squad sees the inclusion of several other players: Bradley Cross from Kaizer Chiefs, Thabiso Sesane, Tshegofatso Mabasa from Orlando Pirates, Luke Le Roux from IFK