Pitso Mosimane Sends Strong Message To Returning Bafana Bafana World Cup Stars Ahead Of Kenya Clash

Returning to the Bafana Bafana squad after featuring at the 2026 FIFA World Cup will not guarantee anyone a place in the starting line-up, with coach Pitso Mosimane making it clear that players must earn their positions through hard work and consistent performances.

Mosimane has warned his players against assuming that past contributions or big reputations will automatically secure their places, particularly as several World Cup squad members return to the team.

Among those back in contention are Lyle Foster, Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Thalente Mbatha, but the coach wants them to prove they are still performing at the level required to represent South Africa.

Speaking to the media during Bafana Bafana’s first training session at Milpark Stadium, Mosimane said players should fight to retain their places once given an opportunity.

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Mosimane Warns Players Against Taking Places For Granted

The coach believes competition for places is essential, insisting that players who earn the right to wear the national team jersey must work hard to keep it.

He acknowledged that injuries can sometimes force changes, but said players should not willingly surrender their positions to teammates.

“You have to have the mentality to want the jersey because when you have the jersey, keep it. Don’t give it to somebody else. But there are things that are beyond what you want to do, like injuries,” Mosimane told reporters, as reported by FarPost.

His comments come as Bafana Bafana prepare for Friday’s clash at Orlando Amstel Arena, with places in the starting eleven still up for grabs.

Lyle Foster And Iqraam Rayners Face Competition

Mosimane’s selection approach means returning players will have to compete with those who have maintained their form and contributed during their absence.

Lyle Foster is among those being reintegrated into the squad following his transition period with Major League Soccer side Houston Dynamo.

However, Iqraam Rayners has also been making a strong case for himself, with Mosimane acknowledging the striker’s recent performances.

The coach also highlighted his continued consideration of defender Ime Okon, despite the player’s limited game time at German second-tier club Hannover 96.

For Mosimane, selection will depend on a combination of current form, match fitness and the contribution players are making at club level.

He stressed that being part of the squad that represented South Africa at the World Cup does not automatically earn a player another opportunity.

“So, everyone has an opportunity to be back, but we don’t just bring you back because you were part of that 2026 FIFA World Cup team. We still have to check if you are playing and if you are at the level at which you were playing before, and the contribution that you are giving your team. It’s very important,” he said.

Mosimane insisted that reputation and past achievements would not earn players automatic selection, stressing that everyone must prove their worth on the pitch to retain their place in the national team.