Pitso Mosimane hints at Themba Zwane’s Bafana Bafana retirement

Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has hinted that Themba Zwane may have played his final match for the national team.

Mshishi, featured in Bafana’s AFCON qualifier against Eritrea as well as a friendly against Egypt last month.

The 37-year-old, however, has struggled for regular game time at Mamelodi Sundowns, raising questions about his continued involvement in the national team.

On Thursday, Mosimane announced his 27-man squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Kenya, with the experienced midfielder notably left out.

Zwane omitted from Bafana squad

Speaking about the decision, Mosimane admitted that dropping one of the team’s senior leaders was an emotional experience.

He also revealed that he did not want Zwane’s final appearance for Bafana to be the FIFA World Cup match against Mexico, where he received a red card.

“It was emotional, it was not an easy decision, I had to drop Mshishi,” Mosimane said.

“This is a national team; it’s about emotions, right? It’s about doing what you think is right.”

The Bafana coach also revealed the important role Zwane played behind the scenes, explaining that the midfielder had become something of an assistant coach, helping him understand the strengths of younger players.

“He’s also my coach, by the way, Mshishi. He helps me with these boys to say, coach, this one’s strength is this.”

“So, I have left the coach behind now,” he added.

Mosimane also explained his decision to recall Lyle Foster, questioning whether the former Burnley striker should be written off despite his recent struggles.

“But I also have to say, are we burying Lyle? Is Lyle 35 years old? Is Lyle not a good player anymore?”

“We mustn’t forget who scored for us to qualify for the AFCON. This thing is not just about the talent, it’s emotional and I had to phone Mshishi.”

The Bafana coach revealed that he personally contacted Zwane to explain his decision, with the veteran midfielder taking the news professionally.

“Yes, I called him, he took it well, he’s professional and said no problem coach, let’s give Lyle, he’s strong in the box and he can score for us.”

While Mosimane has not officially confirmed Zwane’s international retirement, his latest comments suggest that the veteran midfielder’s Bafana Bafana chapter could be coming to an end.