Khoza relishing Bafana debut in WC Qualifiers

Mamelodi Sundowns defender, Malibongwe Khoza, says he was surprised to receive his first Bafana Bafana call-up, admitting that he thought it would come later in his career.

The 21-year old Khoza was named in Hugo Broos’ squad for the must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, set to take place in Durban and Mbombela respectively.

Khoza is one of two new faces in the Bafana team, with Polokwane City right back Thabang Matuludi being the other.

“I didn’t think my call-up was going to come this early,” said Khoza during the press conference on Monday afternoon at Dobsonville Stadium.

“I was always working and motivated to make sure that I work on my next one [match] and perform every game.”

Khoza says being part of the CHAN squad was also beneficial for him and getting international experience.

“The team [Sundowns] let me know when I went to CHAN that they wanted me to gain the national team experience cause I didn’t have it before,” he added.

“I didn’t have it before, so I went there, I got some experience, some minutes. Then, I started playing more and getting my confidence back.”

Broos has also backed the youngster to make an impact in the senior national team.

“What really pleases me is the fact that the results have been coming even when we make the team younger,” said Broos in an interview.

“So, we’re going on [every] moment we can do it. And I think now with the suspension of Ngezana and Okon’s injury, why not give him a chance and see how he reacts.”

“Yes [he can play different positions] but with a guy young like him, you have to put him in his best position and I think that’s centre-back,” he added.

The countdown to Moses Mabhida Stadium continues!!!#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/el7UAYEOjq

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) October 7, 2025

Written by: Ntsako Mukhari