08 June 2025 – Coach David Nyathi was highly impressed with the discipline exhibited by the 40 young players who attended the South African men’s national team U17 selection camp at the SAFA Technical Centre in the South of Johannesburg this week.
The primary mission of the U17 selection camp was to identify and nurture young footballers born between 2009 and 2010, preparing them to represent South Africa in the 2026 international competitions according to the FIFA squad cycle.
“You are always looking for players to embrace each other, even though they come from different teams, to show respect to each other, and to come on time when we have team events and meetings. They come on time, the dress code is looking proper, and on the field, there is fair play. You don’t see violent conduct on the field, you see the players in a manner that shows that they are not intentionally trying to hurt each other,” Nyathi said.
“Every stage, you learn something that might help you accelerate your development, so these are moments where some are privileged to have a national team camp. They have got the best facilities, the best experts around them and the best training environments – this changes your life completely and gives you a different perspective and might give you motivation to proceed.”
The selection camp commenced on 1 June and ended on 7 June 2025. The camp served as a strategic initiative to nurture young talent, ensuring the country’s sustained competitiveness on the global football stage. Beyond fostering skills development, the selection camp reinforced national unity and identity. A strong youth system produces future stars who elevate South Africa’s presence and prestige in the international football.
Nyathi also commended the tutor with the exams and studies for creating an environment for the players to study. The tutor allocated time to do the exams with the players, and to ensure that they have a very good environment for them to study and write their exams.
SA UNDER-17 Men’s Preliminary Squad
1. Kruger Callum
2.Losper Sabrie
3.Ethan Garcia
4.Moffit Braiythe
5.Ndlovu Lwandile
6.Aphelele Majola
7.Mohapi Lehlo
8.Dlamini Lwazi
9.Magcaka Neo
10.Mati Boji
11.Makunga Lutho
12.Thumeni Likamva
13.Mashile Keagile
14.Makhonto Lwazi
15.Ngcobo Thapelo
16.Zazi Qotoyi
17.Hees Aqeel
18.Gerwer Jesse
19.Modisane Neo
20.Mbongo Siyabonga
21.Mkhize Melusi
22.Hempe Noah
23.Edries Shaqeel
24.Sisulu Sithenkosi
25.Molepo Mpho
26.Msweli Someleze
27.Maqangu Asakhe
28.Silega Malikhanye
29.Rodriques Rocco
30.Simama Inganathi
31.Moalusi Thato
32. Mafanya Ncedo
33.Radebe Ayanda
34.Mhlongo Obama
35.Daniels Lincoln
36.Tristian Omalley
37.Moos Jordan
38.Biyela Thalente
39.Mbilini Mpho
40.Madondo Ntokozo
South African Football: The team has a mixed record in international friendlies, with numerous wins and losses.
Sun Leo
You might remember that in 2010, South Africa hosted the World Cup. But did you know it was the first African nation ever to do so?
Scarlet Mary
The sole purpose of your middle name is so you know when you are in real trouble with your mother