Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has reportedly announced his preliminary squad for South Africa's upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya, with a former Kaizer Chiefs player among those selected.

According to a report published by Soccer Laduma on Friday, October 23, 2026, South Africa are preparing for two important encounters against Kenya, who are coached by former Bafana Bafana striker Benni McCarthy.

The upcoming fixtures will give South Africa another opportunity to strengthen their position in the qualifying campaign and take another step towards securing a place at the 2027 AFCON tournament.

Bafana Bafana made a promising start to their qualification journey last month, registering consecutive victories against Guinea and Eritrea. Those results earned the team valuable points and boosted hopes of reaching the continental competition.

Mosimane will now be looking for his players to maintain that momentum when they face Kenya in November. The preliminary squad reportedly includes several players who were unavailable during the previous international break, giving the coach additional options as he prepares for the two matches.

Among the notable names are Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Lyle Foster, who missed out on selection during the previous FIFA international window. Their inclusion could strengthen the available options as South Africa prepare for a demanding international assignment.

Another player attracting attention is Sabah FK defender Aden McCarthy, who has reportedly earned a call-up following an impressive milestone in European football. The defender recently scored his first UEFA Champions League goal against Borussia Dortmund, further raising his profile.

His inclusion provides an opportunity to compete for a place in the national team as Bafana Bafana continue their preparations for the qualifiers.

The two matches against Kenya will also be significant because of Benni McCarthy's involvement. The former South African international will be leading the Kenyan side against the country he once represented on the international stage.

South Africa are scheduled to host Kenya at the Orlando Amstel Arena on November 13 before travelling to Nairobi for the return encounter four days later.

Playing the same opponent twice within a short period will test Bafana Bafana's consistency, tactical preparation and ability to manage pressure. Mosimane will need his players to remain disciplined and make the most of their scoring opportunities in both fixtures.

The preliminary squad announcement offers supporters an early look at the players who could feature in the crucial encounters. However, the final squad selection and performances on the pitch will ultimately determine South Africa's chances of continuing their positive start to the qualifying campaign.

With a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations the ultimate objective, Bafana Bafana will be aiming to collect as many points as possible from their two meetings with Kenya and strengthen their hopes of reaching the tournament.

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