SAFA, Bafana Bafana in Race to Resolve Bonus Dispute Ahead of 2025 AFCON

The South African Football Association (SAFA) is in ongoing discussions with Bafana Bafana players regarding their bonus structure for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to CEO Lydia Monyepao.

Historically, bonus disputes have often overshadowed the national team's preparations for major tournaments.

However, Lydia Monyepao expressed confidence that an agreement will be reached before the squad assembles for their training camp on December 8 at the University of Pretoria.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

Bonus-related standoffs are a recurring issue across African football. Recently, Nigeria's national team reportedly refused to train ahead of a crucial World Cup qualifier due to outstanding payments.

Lydia Monyepao confirmed that SAFA initiated early talks with Bafana Bafana's player leadership to prevent similar disruptions from affecting their campaign.

"We had conversations with the leadership of the players during the recent camp in Sandton," Monyepao stated as quoted by The Herald.

"Talks have begun, everyone has put their cards on the table, and it is about getting approvals on what they have proposed and what we have proposed. We need to find each other, but before the camp starts in December, we will be on the same page."

In addition to player negotiations, SAFA is also finalising logistical preparations. Lydia Monyepao mentioned that the association participated in a recent workshop hosted by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to ensure all compliance requirements are met.

"We have started with preparations by doing what needs to be done," she explained. "We were in the CAF workshop on Tuesday to understand what is expected of us as a federation. We had the opportunity to ask clarity-seeking questions so we have all the information we need and we are adequately prepared for the tournament."

Tournament regulations permit teams to name a final squad of up to 27 players. However, CAF will only cover the expenses for 23, leaving individual federations to fund any additional members. Monyepao said the final squad size will be determined by head coach Hugo Broos.

"We will be guided by coach Hugo Broos on that one; he will tell us the number of players he will be taking to the tournament," she concluded.

"At the moment, I do not have an idea. I am expecting 23 players, but he might want more, and we will be open to that if he wants to take more to the tournament."

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is set to be hosted in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

Bafana Bafana have been drawn into a challenging Group B alongside seven-time champions Egypt, their neighbours Zimbabwe, and Angola.

Following their bronze-medal finish in the 2023 tournament, South Africa's primary target is to advance from the group stage and make another strong run towards the final.