Cape Town – Head coach of Stellenbosch FC, Steve Barker, has publicly extended his full support to Bafana Bafana ahead of the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
According to iDiskitimes, Barker’s endorsement comes at a moment of high expectations for Bafana.
After delivering a third‑place finish at the last AFCON in Ivory Coast, the national side are widely seen as contenders to go “one step further” — and possibly claim the trophy.
Despite the fact that Stellenbosch may not have a player in the final 25‑man squad named by Hugo Broos, Barker emphasised that he remains wholeheartedly behind the national team.
“I’m very proud of what they’ve achieved in the last while, and we’re fully behind them … Let’s go one step further … and why not go there and win it?” Barker told iDiski Times.
Which, for Barker, speaks not only to patriotism — but also to a broader belief in the progress of South African football.
As coach of a club competing on the continent (Stellenbosch are involved in continental competition this season), Barker has often highlighted the growth of domestic clubs and how club performances feed into national‑team potential.
With the final squad now locked in, Bafana Bafana will start their AFCON campaign in a competitive Group B — with group games drawing particular interest as fans and stakeholders anticipate how far the team can go.
What we know about Bafana’s AFCON squad and prospects
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Bafana’s final 25‑man squad for AFCON 2025 was confirmed by Hugo Broos, blending experienced players with emerging talent.
❔ 𝑺𝒐𝒄𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒛𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 ❔
With Hugo Broos having blended youth and experience in his Afcon 2025 squad, what are your expectations for Bafana Bafana at the tournament?#SABCSportFootball #Soccerzone #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/oK4xychD5q
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) December 1, 2025
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The squad features both local‑based and European‑based players, reflecting a mix of tactical versatility, youth infusion, and continental experience.
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The team — backed by domestic and club success — enters the tournament with ambition to build on their recent bronze‑medal finish and potentially go all the way.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
