The Crystal Palace defender has been included in the senior national team for the first time, despite not yet making his debut for South Africa. Smith was one of the standout performers for the country at both the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt and the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, where he cemented his reputation as one of SA’s brightest young prospects.

Broos didn’t stop there. The Belgian mentor also handed a call-up to another 20-year-old in the form of winger Shandre Campbell, who plies his trade at Belgian Pro League giants Club Brugge.

Tylon Smith. Photo: X

While the inclusion of the two youngsters brings welcome energy to the 25-man squad, Broos has otherwise opted for experience – though the absence of Themba Zwane is sure to raise eyebrows.

Broos said the maturity within his squad has allowed him the freedom to include Smith and Campbell, with the intention of giving them valuable exposure at senior international level.

“If I can come back again to Tylon and to Shandre – we have 23 players that I will count on 100%,” Broos said from his native Belgium.

“They are here to gain experience, and I can do that now because we have a number of players who will play the games, and the others just need to learn.

“I think this is a great opportunity for them to be here and understand the demands of different positions. Previously, I couldn’t do it, and that’s why they are here with us now.

“The team has become more mature. We have more experience. The previous AFCON was a very good lesson in how international football is played. It’s not only about quality, but also about power and tactics.

Shandre Campbell. Photo: X

“We learned a lot in Ivory Coast. That helped us qualify for the World Cup and now to qualify again for AFCON.

“This team has become so mature that we are going to AFCON with much more experience than we had two years ago. That’s the biggest change.”

Bafana Bafana open their campaign against Angola on 22 December in Marrakesh.

Bafana Bafana squad for the Africa Cup of Nations:

Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss

Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazu, Aubrey Modiba, Thabang Matuludi, Khulumani Ndamane, Siyabonga Ngezana, Samkelo Kabini, Tylon Smith

Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Bathusi Aubaas, Sphephelo Sithole

Forwards: Mohau Nkota, Elias Mokwana, Sipho Mbule, Relebohile Mofokeng, Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Lyle Foster, Shandre Campbell

On standby: Iqraam Rayners, Mduduzi Shabalala, Thabo Moloisane

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs