Masango identifies two Kaizer Chiefs players who could earn Bafana Bafana call-ups

The absence of Kaizer Chiefs players from Bafana Bafana's latest squad has raised questions about the quality of the Soweto club's current squad. Former winger Mandla Masango believes the situation should also serve as motivation.

South Africa coach Pitso Mosimane left out all Chiefs players from his 27-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya.

Masango names Chiefs players with Bafana potential

Masango admitted that missing out on national team selection would be disappointing for Amakhosi players but believes it reflects the improving standard of South African football.

“Obviously it’s not a nice feeling, but again it shows that the standard of football in South Africa is improving,” he said.

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“It doesn’t matter what team you are playing for, as long as you have a South African ID and you are eligible to play for Bafana, you will have an opportunity.

“I think Mduduzi [Shabalala] is slowly knocking on Bafana’s door, and Brandon Petersen was also doing well before the [2026 FIFA] World Cup. So I think they are not that far off; I think it’s just a matter of luck sometimes.”

Chiefs players have another chance to impress

Chiefs midfielder Lebohang Maboe received a Bafana call-up during the previous international break but withdrew because of injury.

Defender Bradley Cross also represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

The Amakhosi have another opportunity to put their players in the national team conversation as they pursue the Carling Knockout Cup. They have reached the semi-finals and will face Mamelodi Sundowns after beating Siwelele FC in the quarter-finals.

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