Bafana Bafana squad announcement: Hugo Broos facing huge calls on Themba Zwane and Iqraam Rayners

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos will put his head on the block on Thursday afternoon, when he announces the 23-member squad that will face Panama national football team in two international friendlies at Moses Mabhida Stadium and DHL Stadium on March 27 and 31, respectively.

These are two games that Bafana will want to win at all costs, as they form part of their preparations for the upcoming Fifa World Cup, which will be staged in North America by the US, Canada and Mexico.

Below, we look at the key areas Broos must focus on ahead of naming his squad at the SABC studios in Auckland Park, with his primary focus being the global showpiece.

Bring back Themba Zwane

Themba Zwane missed out on the Africa Cup of Nations after being sidelined ahead of the showpiece for some time. He is now back and contributing effectively for Mamelodi Sundowns in their Betway Premiership title chase.

Granted, age might not be on his side at 36, but he still has the experience and the legs. Zwane weaves past his markers like a magician and has an excellent understanding of the game, knowing when to slow down or increase the tempo.

His experience is evident not only on the pitch but off it as well, as he has a strong relationship with most, if not all, of his teammates. That is why he remains a fan favourite due to his incredible talent and personality.

With Bafana needing all the talent and experience to navigate the uncharted territory of the World Cup, they will benefit from someone like Zwane. Unfortunately for Broos, there is only one Zwane.

Repay Jayden Adams’ form

Jayden Adams is enjoying his best run at Mamelodi Sundowns after previously finding himself in and out of the team, either in the stands or on the bench. Coach Miguel Cardoso believes he now has a strong holding midfielder capable of controlling games.

Adams’ form should be rewarded by Broos with another national team opportunity. He has not disappointed in the past, contributing with goals and assists.

While Adams offers goal contributions, it is his accurate passing and ability to penetrate pockets of space that make him stand out, helping the team function effectively, especially in midfield. A national team call-up would also affirm that he is heading in the right direction, particularly after reports that he allegedly sought a loan move from Sundowns in January.

Reward Iqraam Rayners

Iqraam Rayners was surprisingly left out of the final Bafana squad for Afcon, having been placed on the standby list alongside Mduduzi Shabalala and Thabo Maloisane.

That decision raised eyebrows within the football fraternity, with many believing Rayners would have been a better option in attack than Elias Mokwana, who had limited involvement with the team at the time.

Now back at Sundowns, Rayners has been firing on all cylinders. He is currently the league’s second top scorer with 10 goals, two behind leader Junior Dion. With Evidence Makgopa and Lyle Foster not in form for their respective clubs, Broos could benefit from selecting a striker like Rayners, who is consistently finding the back of the net.

*Mihlali Baleka is Independent Media's senior football reporter and a panelist on the group's soccer podcast, The D-Line, which is exclusive on our YouTube channel The Clutch