Maboe backs Mosimane’s PSL expertise to boost Bafana’s AFCON 2027 bid

Lebogang Maboe believes Pitso Mosimane’s detailed knowledge of the Premier Soccer League can help Bafana Bafana succeed under the experienced coach. Mosimane is set to lead South Africa into the next phase of their international programme.

Maboe’s confidence is based partly on their time together at Mamelodi Sundowns. Mosimane brought the midfielder to the club from Maritzburg United, now known as Durban City, and helped develop him into a versatile player capable of operating in several roles.

Mosimane is preparing to select a preliminary squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea-Conakry and Eritrea. South Africa will also play Egypt in a confirmed international friendly, giving the coach an early opportunity to assess his options.

Maboe was part of the preliminary group considered for the World Cup and could again be in contention. His experience across the midfield gives him a route back into the national-team picture, although he is also seeking an improvement in his goal contribution this season.

The 30-year-old ended a long wait for a goal when he converted a penalty in Kaizer Chiefs’ 2-2 draw with Richards Bay. It was his first goal since 26 May 2021, when he scored for Sundowns in their 3-1 victory over SuperSport United, who have since ceased to exist under that name.

At Chiefs, Maboe has mainly played as either a number eight or a number six. Sundowns also used him as a number 10 and wing-back, while current coach Fernando Da Cruz has kept him in a familiar area but asked him to interpret the role differently according to the spaces available during matches.