• Helman Mkhalele summons provisional squad
• Mkhalele’s Bafana Bafana pitted in group A
• Reason for summoning a large squad
• 2024 COSAFA CUP full draw
• #UgSportsNow
Coach Helman Mkhalele has set the stage for the upcoming COSAFA Cup by revealing an expanded 51-member preliminary squad for South Africa’s men’s team. The regional tournament is set to take place from June 26 to July 7, 2024. Mkhalele will soon finalize the squad to 23 members as the team gears up for what promises to be an exciting competition.
Also read: FIFA World Cup Qualifier: Bafana Bafana Outshine Zimbabwe
Mkhalele’s Bafana Bafana pitted in group A
The draw for the COSAFA Cup, held last Friday, has placed the host nation, Bafana Bafana, in Group A alongside Botswana, Mozambique, and Eswatini. The pool matches are scheduled to take place from June 26 to July 3, 2024. The semifinals will be held on July 5, leading up to the final and the third-place playoff on July 7.
With a larger preliminary squad at his disposal, Coach Mkhalele has a wealth of talent to choose from as he narrows down the final lineup. The competition within the squad will undoubtedly push players to showcase their skills and secure a spot in the final 23-member team.
The COSAFA Cup presents a valuable opportunity for South Africa to assess its talent pool, provide exposure to emerging players, and fine-tune strategies ahead of larger international tournaments. Competing against neighboring countries will also offer a platform for players to test themselves against diverse styles of play and strengthen their international experience.
As the countdown to the COSAFA Cup begins, fans eagerly anticipate the final squad announcement and the thrilling matches that lie ahead. The tournament not only serves as a showcase of regional football talent but also as a stage for South Africa to assert its prowess on the African football landscape.
Mkhalele’s decision to summon a large squad
Coach Helman Mkhalele’s strategic approach in assembling an enlarged preliminary squad reflects a commitment to thorough preparation and ensuring that the team is equipped to deliver a strong performance. With the support of fans and the backing of the nation, Bafana Bafana aims to make a mark in the COSAFA Cup and vie for success in the prestigious tournament.
THE 2024 COSAFA CUP DRAW
GROUP A
- South Africa
- Mozambique
- Eswatini
- Botswana
GROUP B
- Zambia
- Comoros
- Zimbabwe
- (Team to be confirmed)
GROUP C
- Angola
- Namibia
- Lesotho
- Seychelles
The stage is set, the stakes are high, and South Africa’s footballing future shines bright as the team embarks on its COSAFA Cup campaign under the guidance of Coach Helman Mkhalele.