Broos Open to Playing Time for Nemtajela and Makgalwa

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos indicates potential minutes for newcomers Masindi Nemtajela and Keletso Makgalwa.

South Africa will face Chipolopolo in a friendly match at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium this Saturday. This game marks their final preparation before heading to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, scheduled from 21 December to 18 January 2026.

For Nemtajela, representing Orlando Pirates, and Makgalwa from Sekhukhune United, this match is a vital chance to catch the eye of coach Broos as they vie for a spot in the final AFCON squad.

Adding to the tension, this will be Bafana Bafana’s last friendly prior to the continental tournament in North Africa.

“That will depend on how the game goes,” Broos noted when asked about Nemtajela and Makgalwa's chances of featuring against Zambia.

“Again, I want to win the game. If we have an opportunity to give them some minutes—or more minutes—we will certainly do it.”

“I’m glad to have called them up again and have been observing them closely every day: their attitude, their training efforts, talent, and qualities. The difference between their regular game level and what they are experiencing in national team training is stark; they were initially surprised by the quicker, more technical sessions.”

“This opportunity to train with us has provided greater insight and better reports on them than we had before this camp.”

“If the opportunity arises, and if the game goes well for us, they will certainly get some playing time.”