Inspired by Themba Zwane’s remarkable return to the national team,
AmaZulu midfielder Bongani Zungu believes a similar door could open for him
under Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos.
Zungu has yet to feature for South Africa since the Belgian coach took
charge. However, he points to Broos’s change of heart regarding Themba Zwane
as a reason for hope. Initially, Zwane appeared to be excluded from Broos’s
plans, with many attributing it to the team’s focus on younger players. Yet,
the Mamelodi Sundowns captain’s irresistible club form eventually made him
impossible to ignore.
Zwane seized his second chance with such impact that he became indispensable
to Broos’s setup. The coach has since frequently spoken about the challenge
of finding a replacement for the 36-year-old, underscoring his profound
influence.
At 32, Zungu has not closed the door on his international career. He
acknowledges that the path back requires consistent, standout performances
for AmaZulu, and he is prepared to put in the work to capture Broos’s
attention.
“The coach has done an amazing job,” Zungu told Soccer Laduma. “I have never
been coached by him, but whatever he is saying to the team is working. It’s
amazing and we are proud. Seeing what the guys are doing is inspiring.”
When asked about a potential return, he remained optimistic, stating,
“Nothing is impossible. When I am fit and happy, I am unstoppable. Maybe the
national team coach can have a change of heart, you never know. He has done
that before.”
With Bafana Bafana heading to the Africa Cup of Nations later this year and
still competing for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Zungu will be hoping
his performances can convince Broos he deserves a ticket to a major
tournament.
