Mamelodi Sundowns’ attacking midfielder Themba Zwane is on the brink of an exciting achievement with the national team, Bafana Bafana.
As the team gears up to take on Congo-Brazzaville in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, Zwane finds himself just one match away from an impressive milestone.
Upcoming Match Details
Bafana Bafana will host Congo-Brazzaville at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium this Friday, October 11, with kick-off scheduled for 17:00.
Following this match, Hugo Broos and his squad will head to Congo-Brazzaville for the return leg on October 15.
Approaching a Personal Best
With 49 caps to his name, Zwane is poised to earn his 50th cap for Bafana Bafana.
This milestone is a significant achievement, as he will join an exclusive club of players who have represented South Africa at the international level 50 times or more.
Among those who have reached this mark, former captain Aaron Mokoena holds the record with 107 caps, followed closely by Itumeleng Khune, who boasts 91.
A Historic Comparison
What adds an intriguing layer to Zwane’s milestone is the fact that reaching 50 caps will put him level with the legendary Doctor Khumalo, a figure often referenced in discussions about the best players in South African football history.
Khumalo had a stellar career with Kaizer Chiefs and played a crucial role in Bafana Bafana’s victory at the 1996 AFCON.
In contrast, Zwane recently helped the national team secure a bronze medal at the 2023 AFCON tournament, showcasing his impact on the current squad.
Scoring Records
In terms of scoring, Zwane has found the net 12 times in his 49 appearances for the national team, while Khumalo managed nine goals during his 50 matches.
It’s interesting to note that neither player is a traditional striker, highlighting their versatility and contribution to the team in various roles.
What’s Next for Zwane?
As Zwane approaches this remarkable milestone, fans will be eagerly watching his performance in the upcoming matches.
His journey reflects not only personal ambition but also the ongoing evolution of South African football.
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