Cassius Mailula has rediscovered his form at Wydad Casablanca, raising the question of whether Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos can afford to overlook him any longer.
The 23-year-old forward has been in outstanding form, scoring goals and providing assists for the Moroccan giants.
Mailula’s recent performances have silenced doubts about his ability to bounce back after a difficult spell at Toronto FC in Major League Soccer.
Following his high-profile move to North America in 2023, he struggled for game time, making just five appearances without scoring before being loaned to Wydad in August 2024.
In Morocco’s Botola Pro League, the former Mamelodi Sundowns star has quickly re-established himself as a key attacking force. Under the guidance of Rulani Mokwena, a coach who understands his playing style, Mailula has flourished.
His creativity and finishing ability have added much-needed firepower to Wydad’s frontline, earning him the club’s Player of the Month award in January 2025.
Mailula’s impact in Morocco is undeniable.
In his last 10 matches, he has recorded two goals and five assists, with four games in which he did not register a goal contribution.
As Bafana Bafana look to build on their AFCON 2024 success and prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Mailula’s form presents a strong case for his national team recall.
Broos has consistently emphasised the importance of selecting players who are active and in form at their clubs and Mailula’s performances at Wydad tick both boxes.
His ability to operate as a second striker or winger could provide Broos with additional attacking options, particularly as South Africa seeks to strengthen their forward line.
Mailula’s last call-up was against Morocco on 17 June 2023 for AFCON qualification.
Now, the decision rests with Hugo Broos will he reward Mailula’s resurgence with a well-deserved recall to the national team?
Bafana Bafana are set to face Lesotho on 21 March in a World Cup qualifier at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
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