Shabalala Seeks Spot on Bafana Bafana – Sportswire

Mduduzi Shabalala, a midfield player for Kaizer Chiefs, is keen to take the chance to represent Bafana Bafana if he makes the final squad for the impending FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.

The 21-year-old has secured a position in the preliminary lineup selected by coach Hugo Broos, alongside fellow teammate Bradley Cross.

Broos is set to unveil his final team during a press conference on Thursday, as Bafana Bafana prepares to face Lesotho and Nigeria at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein next month.

Shabalala has showcased impressive performances for Amakhosi, participating in all three matches of the season and proving his capabilities, despite not yet finding the back of the net this season.

For Shabalala, donning the Bafana Bafana jersey symbolizes the realization of a long-held aspiration.

“Competing for Bafana or your national team is a dream that everyone shares,” stated Shabalala, who previously played in the Bafana COSAFA Cup in June but experienced a loss in the final to Angola.

“I need to concentrate on delivering strong performances in the next two matches to boost my chances of making the national team.

“Being included in the national squad is a tough endeavor, but the bright side is that my club is excelling this season.

“Therefore, my duty is to perform and remain patient for the right opportunity. If this is it, then I’m confident that everything will fall into place.”

Having played for the national team at several levels, including U17, U20, and U23, Shabalala feels equipped for this chance.

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

Shabalala is determined to make a lasting impact in the final two league matches against Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium on Wednesday and Golden Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday prior to the international break.