Hugo Broos assures Themba Zwane of Bafana Bafana spot for World Cup

Hugo Broos assures Themba Zwane of Bafana Bafana spot for World Cup

The Belgian mentor made the statement following the 1-1 draw against Panama at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, where the veteran midfielder featured for an hour before being substituted for Relebohile Mofokeng.

"I think everybody saw why I put him [Zwane] in the team today, today. He is such a good player," said Broos after the match.

"He made us play better football. But I knew also that he's not ready to play 90 minutes. And we have to take attention with him and be careful with him, not to overload him because when you overload him, he could have injuries, I'm sure of it."

The 34-year-old Zwane was making his first appearance since 2024, where he ruptured his Achilles tendon, leaving him out of action for several months before a knee injury derailed his comeback in August 2025.

"We will see him next Tuesday, he'll recuperate. And if he recuperates, he will play again, because he needs that," added Broos.

"If Themba stays like he is now, fit, no injuries, then even when he’s not ready for 90 minutes, he will be with us at the World Cup."

Bafana will take on Panama in the second international friendly at the DHL Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday. 

Related News

Ime Okon calls for defensive fix as Bafana Bafana chase Panama win

Ime Okon calls for defensive fix as Bafana Bafana chase Panama win

  • 1 hour ago

Bafana Bafana defender Ime Okon believes South Africa must tighten up at the back when they face Panama again, after costly mistakes denied them victory in their previous encounter.

Dates and times of Champions League semi-finals confirmed by CAF

Dates and times of Champions League semi-finals confirmed by CAF

  • 15 hours ago

Mamelodi Sundowns can start to prepare for their Champions League semi-final with Esperance de Tunis after the Confederation of African Football confirmed the dates and times for the upcoming two-legged clash.

Hugo Broos criticises 'lazy' Lyle Foster following Panama stalemate

Hugo Broos criticises 'lazy' Lyle Foster following Panama stalemate

  • 1 day ago

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos admits he wants more from Lyle Foster after describing the Burnley striker as lazy following the 1-1 friendly draw with Panama.

Panama coach demands higher level after Bafana Bafana draw

Panama coach demands higher level after Bafana Bafana draw

  • 1 day ago

Panama head coach Thomas Christiansen believes both his side and South Africa must raise their level if they are to compete on the global stage, following their 1-1 draw in Durban on Friday.