WILLIAMS BREAKS SILENCE ON RETURN OF TWO WORLD CUP HEROES AS BAFANA PREPARE FOR KENYA CLASHES

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 12 NOVEMBER 2026

Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams has expressed his delight at seeing two players who formed part of South Africa's historic 2026 FIFA World Cup squad return to the national team fold.

The latest developments have brought renewed excitement among supporters as head coach Pitso Mosimane continues shaping his squad for the upcoming international fixtures.

South Africa are preparing for two important encounters against Kenya in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The first meeting is scheduled for 13 November at Orlando Stadium, before the teams travel to Nairobi for the return fixture on 17 November.

The return of experienced and familiar players is expected to provide additional competition and depth as Bafana look to maintain their positive start to the qualifying campaign.

One of the notable returning players is Chicago Fire defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who missed the previous international camp because of injury.

The young defender impressed during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he formed part of South Africa's defensive setup and demonstrated his ability to compete against international opposition.

His return is particularly important as Mosimane looks to maintain defensive stability while continuing to introduce talented players into the national team.

Houston Dynamo striker Lyle Foster and Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha have also returned to the squad, further strengthening the available options.

Williams, who captained Bafana during their memorable World Cup campaign, understands the importance of having players who already understand the team's expectations and responsibilities.

Meanwhile, the national team captain himself remains an important figure in Mosimane's plans, although his fitness has been monitored following recent injury concerns at Mamelodi Sundowns.

Mosimane has also included midfielder Teboho Mokoena despite his injury situation, explaining that the medical team would determine whether the two Sundowns stars are ready to participate.

Bafana currently lead their qualifying group after victories over Guinea and Eritrea, making the upcoming matches against Kenya particularly important.

With Williams welcoming familiar faces and Mosimane building greater squad depth, South African supporters will be hoping the team can maintain its momentum.

The challenge now is to turn the quality within the squad into positive results and continue building on the progress achieved at the World Cup.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2120925837276979652