South African football continues to rapidly rise from the club level, all the way to the national team Bafana Bafana.
Last season, Mamelodi Sundowns reached the Caf Champions League semi-final and won the inaugural African Football League. Then Hugo Broos led his team to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations third-place finish.
Bafana have also made it to the 2025 edition set to be played later this year in Morocco. At club level, Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are already in the Caf Champions League quarter-final while Stellenbosch have made it to the last eight in the Caf Confederation Cup.
The last few years have also seen some youngsters crop up in Mzansi, proving the future of the country's football is in safe hands. In this article, we will be focusing on five youngsters who deserve a chance with the national team this year.
5. Mduduzi Shabalala
Despite being just 20, the versatile midfielder is a key player for Nasreddine Nabi's Kaizer Chiefs. The Glamour Boys have struggled for consistency, but that has not broken Shabalala.
In the 15 games played across all competitions, the youngster has scored five goals and provided two assists.
It is high time coach Broos considered integrating him into the Bafana squad since he is the future of the country, of course, if he remains consistent.
4. Ime Okon
The towering youngster has consistently stated he would love to represent Bafana Bafana in future. He is a talented defender who is also targeted by the Super Eagles of Nigeria since he has all the attributes to be successful.
In the 2023/24 campaign, at just 19, Okon played 33 games for the Swanky Boys and scored a goal. He already has eight outings this season once again showing he is not a one-season wonder.
Just like he has done with Rushwin Dortley of Chiefs, Broos should consider having Okon in his team since Bafana Bafana will have a busy year.
3. Malibongwe Khoza
Despite regular injuries suffered by Grant Kekana, Mothobi Mvala, and Mosa Lebusa, Mamelodi Sundowns have not had massive problems in central defense thanks to the rapid growth of Khoza.
The 20-year-old's mature performance in the seven Caf Champions League appearances – so far this season, is an indication of even greater things coming in the future. He has made a total of 14 appearances for Masandawana in the ongoing campaign.
Imagine playing against Raja Casablanca, AS FAR Rabat, and the likes; surely, Bafana Bafana call-up is coming.
2. Shandre Campbell
At just 18, Campbell established himself as a critical player for SuperSport United in the Premier Soccer League. In 30 games across all competitions, the teenager scored five goals and provided six assists.
Belgian outfit Club Brugge swiftly acted and signed the winger for their reserve team. The now 19-year-old has started life in Europe quite well. In the 10 games played, he has already scored five goals and is a regular.
Playing consistently for Club Brugge's reserve team is an indication that he is ready for bigger responsibilities against the best sides.
1. Mohau Nkota
Who could have guessed last season that Nkota would rise to become a regular at Orlando Pirates within the first few weeks of the season? It has been a dream start for the 20-year-old.
Under coach Jose Riveiro, Nkota has been phenomenal in his debut season with the senior team. He has played 15 matches across all competitions for the Sea Robbers and provided four goals and two assists.
His hunger for success and direct approach might be what Broos can capitalise on.
