Hugo Broos has announced his preliminary Bafana Bafana squad to face Morocco in South Africa’s final 2023 AFCON qualifier.

Bafana will host the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finalists Morocco at FNB Stadium.

South Africa and Morocco have both qualified for next year’s AFCON in Ivory Coast already, with Morocco winning their two opening games vs Liberia and Bafana.

The preliminary squad of 34 names is still going to be trimmed down to 23 players early next month.

Broos indicated that reduced pre-camp will be held from 31 May 2023 to 7 June and will be made up of local and overseas-based players. Iqraam Rayners is one notable new inclusion and the same can be said for TS Galaxy defender Given Msimango, who’s on his way to Kaizer Chiefs. Kobamelo Kodisang and Njabulo Blom are also part of the group. Lyle Foster is a shock exclusion and no explanation has been given for the Burnley man’s absence so far.

BAFANA BAFANA PRELIMINARY SQUAD VS MOROCCO

GOALKEEPERS

Ronwen Williams, Veli Mothwa, Ricardo Goss, Melusi Buthelezi

DEFENDERS

Nyiko Mobbie, Khuliso Mudau, Thapelo Morena, Given Msimango, Innocent Maela, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Siyanda Xulu, Taariq Fielies, Grant Kekana, Aubrey Modiba, Mothobi Mvala

MIDFIELDERS

Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, Njabulo Blom, Grant Margeman, Miguel Timm, Sphelele Mkhulise, Luke Le Roux, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko

ATTACKERS

Monnapule Saleng, Zakhele Lepasa, Cassius Mailula, Kobamelo Kodisang, Khanyisa Mayo, Mihlali Mayambela, Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Percy Tau, Pule Mmodi, Iqraam Rayners