Themba Zwane on the Brink of Milestone 50th Cap for Bafana Bafana

Bafana Bafana midfielder Themba Zwane is on the verge of achieving a significant career milestone as he is set to earn his 50th cap for the South African national team. This opportunity will present itself when Bafana Bafana faces Congo Brazzaville in a critical 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The match is scheduled to take place at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Friday, 11 October 2024.

Zwane, who was born in Tembisa, has been instrumental in the national squad’s performances. Alongside captain Ronwen Williams, who has earned 46 caps, and Percy Tau, who also has 46 caps, Zwane is considered one of the most experienced players in the team that is working towards qualifying for the tournament scheduled to be held in Morocco the following year.

The midfielder made his debut for Bafana Bafana in 2014 during a friendly international against Australia. Coming off the bench to replace Ayanda Patosi at the ANZ Stadium in Sydney, Zwane helped secure a 1-1 draw for his team while wearing the number 8 jersey. Over his career, he has accumulated a total of 3,479 minutes on the pitch in national team colors, during which he has netted 12 goals. His inaugural goal for Bafana Bafana was scored against Burkina Faso in a FIFA World Cup qualifier that South Africa won 3-1 at the FNB Stadium on 7 October 2017.

Coach Hugo Broos has consistently praised the 35-year-old Zwane, recognizing him as one of South Africa’s finest midfield talents. His contributions and experience are considered valuable assets as the team aims to secure qualification for the African continental tournament.