Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has opened up about his decision to leave Themba Zwane out of the latest national team squad, sparking speculation that the experienced midfielder could be nearing the end of his international career.
Zwane, affectionately known as Mshishi, was a notable omission from the 27-man squad announced by Mosimane on Thursday ahead of South Africa’s upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Kenya.
The 37-year-old midfielder recently featured for Bafana Bafana in the AFCON qualifier against Eritrea and the international friendly against Egypt. However, his lack of regular playing time at Mamelodi Sundowns appears to have raised concerns about his current role in the national team.
Mosimane Explains Why Zwane Was Dropped
Speaking about his selection decisions, Mosimane admitted that leaving Zwane out was particularly difficult because of the midfielder’s experience and leadership within the squad.
The Bafana coach described the decision as emotional, acknowledging the important contribution Mshishi has made to South African football.
Mosimane also revealed that he would have preferred Zwane’s final appearance for the national team not to be the FIFA World Cup encounter against Mexico, where the midfielder received a red card.
The former Al Ahly mentor further praised Zwane’s influence beyond his performances on the pitch.
According to Mosimane, the Sundowns midfielder had become an important source of guidance, helping him identify the strengths and abilities of younger players in the squad.
“He’s also my coach, by the way, Mshishi,” Mosimane explained, highlighting the veteran’s unofficial role within the team.
The coach added that leaving Zwane out meant losing someone who had been valuable to him in understanding the younger generation of Bafana players.
Lyle Foster Gets Another Opportunity
Mosimane also defended his decision to recall striker Lyle Foster, despite questions surrounding the forward’s recent form.
The coach questioned whether Foster should be written off, particularly considering his age and previous contributions to the national team.
Mosimane reminded critics that Foster played an important role in South Africa’s qualification for AFCON, insisting that past contributions and a player’s ability should also be considered when making selection decisions.
He further disclosed that he personally contacted Zwane to explain why he had been excluded from the squad.
Interestingly, Mshishi reportedly accepted the decision professionally and even supported Foster’s inclusion, pointing out the striker’s physical strength and ability to score goals inside the penalty area.
Is Mshishi’s Bafana Bafana Career Coming to an End?
Although Mosimane has not officially confirmed that Zwane is retiring from international football, his latest remarks have raised questions about the midfielder’s future with the national team.
At 37, and struggling to secure consistent game time at Mamelodi Sundowns, Zwane faces an uncertain road back into the Bafana Bafana setup.
Nevertheless, his experience, technical ability and leadership could still make him a valuable option should Mosimane consider recalling him in the future.
For now, the door has not officially been closed on the veteran midfielder.
Do you think Themba Zwane will make a return to Bafana Bafana, or have we seen the last of Mshishi in the national team colours?
