Kaizer Chiefs attacking midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala remains optimistic about his chances of representing Bafana Bafana in the future.
The 21-year-old playmaker was placed on standby for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), but he did not get to travel to Morocco, as no injuries occurred within the squad.
Despite a promising start to the 2025/26 season, Shabalala’s performances have been average, and he has faced criticism recently for missing several key chances that could have put his team in a stronger position.
Shabalala’s chances of making it to Bafana team slim
In a match against Stellenbosch, for example, he squandered three significant opportunities, which ultimately led to his side’s elimination in the Nedbank Cup round of 32.
With only three goals and one assist so far this season, Shabalala’s chances of making the Bafana Bafana World Cup squad set to be announced in May appear slim.
He will need to deliver an outstanding performance over the next three months to be considered for the position. At just 21, Shabalala still has a bright future ahead of him, and if he can regain his form and make meaningful contributions, he will likely have a role in the national team down the line.
When asked about his ambitions for the national team, he expressed that his primary focus is to help his club.
“The talks mean nothing, mine is to work hard and raise my hand in my club,” said Shabalala as per iDiski Times.
“I believe that one day I’ll get an opportunity to go and represent my national team.”
Shabalala has only one cap for Bafana Bafana, and it came last year during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.