Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says that he is not worried about Themba “Mshishi” Zwane’s age and that the Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder will play at the world cup if he continues with his current form.
Zwane is turning 35 in August, and he will be 37 when the Fifa 2026 World Cup rolls into the three host countries, namely the US, Mexico and Canada.
There are already questions about his fitness and him slowing down due to age. But Broos allayed the fears and said Zwane must continue playing like he is, and he will book his ticket to his first world cup tournament, if the team qualifies.
“You know that in the team there are a few older players – but it does not mean that we should make direct replacements now. When you talk about the world cup, it is happening in two years’ time,” said Broos.
“Take a guy like Themba Zwane. He will be 37 years I think when we go to the world cup. If he is still playing like he is now, why should I not take him with?
“You know at that age, things can change suddenly and we have to look at that. If something happens to Themba, we must look for someone and make sure we have a replacement.
“There are other players like Siyanda Xulu, who is 32, I think. So, there are a few players which we must think about taking and those games against Nigeria in March, I will use them for that and call a few other players and see what qualities they have.
“Little by little,” continued Broos, “we must start focusing on the future, especially if we qualify for the world cup.
“We can go with this team now, maybe some players will not be good enough to make it for June 2026. We will see and try other players in March and try to find young players and see how they can fit in – it’s up to them to take the chance.
“There are some good players in the PSL. Maybe there will be three or four new players.
“Siyabonga Ngezana has done very well in Romania. The reason I did not pick him is that it would have been the first time he was going to be with the team – it can be bad or good.
“Maybe he needs to adapt a bit. He will be there for the games in March because he will play in the future.”
