With Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos set to make a thorough squad evaluation after a dismal Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) display in Morocco, former Orlando Pirates striker Zakhele Lepasa says he sees this as a chance to return to the national team set-up and
ultimately realise his Fifa World Cup dream.
Lepasa is currently in the books of Betway Premiership side Siwelele FC, who gave him a lifeline after spending a season-long spell on the sidelines due to a career-threatening injury during his final season at the Buccaneers.
Before the injury, the former Pirates talisman was one of Broos’ trusted soldiers and was key in the rebuilding process of the national team.
He also played a crucial part in the Bafana team that went on to make history and clinch a bronze medal at the 2023 Afcon in the Ivory Coast.
Speaking to Sunday World in an exclusive interview, the 28-year-old net-beater
expressed his delight to be back in full fitness and said he’ll use this opportunity to fight his way back into Broos’ team that will be going to the World Cup in June.
“First of all, I am happy that I got an opportunity to play football again with Siwelele, because with everything that is and has happened in my life, the most important thing to me is playing football,” Lepasa said.
“I had to make peace a long time ago that I would miss the Afcon in Morocco, but I am looking forward to coming back strong in 2026 … from the first games in the league, and just give myself a chance to return to Bafana and go to the World Cup, because it is every player’s dream.
“I remember that I have always said that I will play the 2026 World Cup, and now that Bafana Bafana have qualified, I’ll fight to make sure that dream comes true.”
Since joining Siwelele, Lepasa has made some appearances from the bench and will be hungry to get back on the pitch in the second half of the season.
Siwelele will return to action on January 23, when they travel to KwaZulu-Natal to face Richards Bay FC at the King Zwelithini Stadium.
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