Bafana Bafana target victory against Malawi in CHAN 2025 qualifier

To qualify for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), Bafana Bafana face the task of securing an aggregate win over Malawi, starting with Saturday's first leg at the Republic Stadium in Lilongwe (3pm kick-off).

Coach Molefi Ntseki said he was eager to make a strong statement in the first leg, and emphasised the importance of scoring away from home.

"The good thing is that they (the selected players) are all here and we are ready to go," Ntseki affirmed, expressing confidence in the availability and readiness of his players following initial struggles to secure a complete squad.

"We just have to play a game in Malawi with a very clear understanding that a goal in Malawi will be very important for us."

Ntseki and his supporting staff have been preparing meticulously and dedicated significant time to analysing their opponents.

"We have gone through the team that they’ve selected. They have selected all their best local players," Ntseki noted.

He highlighted the depth of talent in the Malawian camp, which features athletes who not only compete in local leagues, but also contribute to their national efforts in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and World Cup qualifiers.

The challenge ahead is substantial since Malawi's squad is coached by Patrick Mabedi. He is a former Kaizer Chiefs defender who has an intimate understanding of South African football’s nuances.

Bafana Bafana will be looking to secure a favourable result.

Ntseki stressed the necessity for his players to bring their "A game," which he defined as exhibiting a positive attitude, determination, and self-belief.

"We have to implement our tactics and approach," he said, adding "and come back with a point or return with three points."

The players will return home on Monday to prepare for the second chapter of this qualifying campaign at Loftus Stadium next Sunday.

Bafana CHAN Squad

Goalkeepers: Masindi Nemtajela (Marumo Gallants), Mondli Mpoto (Royal AM), Reyaad Pieterse (Mamelodi Sundowns)

Defenders: Yandisa Mfolozi (SuperSport United), Samukelo Xulu (SuperSport), Kwanda Mngonyama (AmaZulu), Wayde Jooste (AmaZulu), Kamogelo Mahlatsi (Gallants), Mlungisi Khumalo (Gallants), Christopher Sithole (Gallants), Bilal Baloyi (SuperSport), Kegan Johannes (Sundowns), Donay Jansen (SuperSport)

Midfielders: Aphelele Teto (Chippa United), Mbongeni Gumede (AmaZulu), Samkelo Zwane (Kaizer Chiefs), Tebogo Potsane (Chiefs), Levy Mashiane (Royal AM), Sammy Seabi (Free Agent), Aden McCarthy (Chiefs)

Forwards: Kamohelo Mahlatsi (Gallants), Masindi Nemtajela (Gallants)