South Africa national team coach Shakes Mashaba has named a squad of 25-players for the 2018 Russia FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Burkina Faso in two weeks time.
Bafana Bafana will face the Stallions at Stade Du 4 Auot in Ouagadougou on Saturday, 8 October 2016.
Kickoff is at 18h00 local time (20h00 SA Time).
Mashaba has recalled Europe-based trio May Mahlangu, Ayanda Patosi and Thulani Serero for the crucial clash with Brighton Mhlongo’s impressive run of form for Orlando Pirates rewarded with a call-up.
The biggest surprise – undoubtedly – is the inclusion of Bidvest Wits forward Eleazar Rodgers who makes his long-awaited return to the national fold following a good start to the 2016-17 season with the Clever Boys.
Goalkeepers: Jackson Mabokgwane, Itumeleng Khune, Brighton Mhlongo
Defenders: Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Rivaldo Coetzee, Thulani Hlatshwayo, Abbubakar Mobara, Diamond Thopola, Tebogo Langerman, Eric Mathoho, Thabo Matlaba
Midfielders: Dean Furman, May Mahlangu, Thulani Serero, Oupa Manyisa, Ayanda Patosi, Keagan Dolly, Aubrey Modiba, Mpho Makola, Hlompho Kekana
Strikers: Eleazar Rodgers, Thamsanqa Gabuza, Thobani Mncwango, Sibusiso Vilakazi, Tokelo Rantie.
South Africa have been drawn in CAF qualifying group D, alongside Burkina Faso, Cape Verde and Senegal.
