Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has released his 23 man squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). A few big names were ignored, which has caused some debates amongst the fans. In this article, we'll talk about the biggest earners in Bafana Bafana's 2023 AFCON squad.
Highest paid players – Bafana Bafana AFCON squad
It's important to note that most of the players who made Hugo Broos' 23-man squad currently ply their trade in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Interestingly, the top five earners in Bafana Bafana's AFCON squad currently play for, or have played for Mamelodi Sundowns at some point in their career.
Given how dominant Masandawana have been, it's no surprise that many of their players were called up to represent South Africa at the AFCON.
Percy Tau – ZAR 1.5m (Al Ahly, Egypt)
Percy Tau has had an interesting career, which has seen him play for seven different clubs across two continents. He started his career with PSL side Mamelodi Sundowns, spending a few years in South Africa's top flight before moving to Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League.
The 29 year old has also played for Belgian teams Anderlecht, Club Brugge and Union Saintt-Gilloise. He has been with 11-time CAF Champions League winners Al Ahly since August 2021. As it stands, Tau has earned 39 caps for Bafana Bafana, scoring 14 times. His salary is estimated at 1.5 million Rands.
Ronwen Williams – ZAR 500,000 (Mamelodi Sundowns)
At 500,000 Rands per month, Ronwen Williams is the only goalkeeper on our list. The Masandawana shot-stopper has been by far the safest hands in the PSL; as he has conceded just three times in 13 league games this season. At the time of writing, Williams did not concede in any of his last five matches for the Sundowns.
Furthermore, Williams earned his first cap for Bafana Bafana in March 2014. He has represented his country on 37 occasions, and is also the captain of the national team.
Thapelo Morena – ZAR 400,000 (Mamelodi Sundowns)
After spending three years at the club's academy, Thapelo Morena kicked off his professional career with Bloemfontein Celtic (now called Royal AM) in 2013. He made the switch to Mamelodi Sundowns in 2016, where he has been ever since.
The 30 year old defender was initially called up to the national team in 2015, and he has earned 17 caps for Bafana Bafana. Mokoena's monthly salary is estimated at 400,000 Rands.
Themba Zwane – ZAR 250,000 (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Themba Zwane's professional career began in 2011, when he joined Mamelodi Sundowns from Vardos FC's youth team. Besides a one-year loan spell with the now-dissolved Mpumalanga Black Aces, Zwane has spent most of his career with Masandawana.
The 34 year old midfielder has won seven PSL titles, as well as a CAF Champions League crown with the Sundowns; he currently earns 250,000 Rands each month. It's also worth mentioning that Zwane has 33 caps for Bafana Bafana, scoring six times.
Mothobi Mvala ZAR 250,000 (Mamelodi Sundowns)
At 250,099 Rands a month, Mothobi Mvala is the last player on our list. The 29 year old defender has represented his country on 15 occasions, scoring once. Mvala spent most of his career with Highlands Park, before moving to Mamelodi Sundowns in 2020.
This article was most recently revised and updated 1 year ago
