Bongani Zungu working torwards a Bafana Bafana return

AmaZulu midfielder Bongani Zungu has not given up on pulling on the Bafana Bafana jersey again, with the veteran playmaker insisting he is working towards earning a national team recall.

The 34-year-old, affectionately known as “Ben 10,” has been a key figure at Usuthu since joining in January following his exit from Mamelodi Sundowns. 

His experience and composure have steadied the KwaZulu-Natal side, who have shown improvement under Arthur Zwane this season.

But for Zungu, there is a personal mission that goes beyond club football. 

He last featured for Bafana Bafana in 2019 during the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, and he admits he would relish another chance with AFCON 2025 and the FIFA World Cup on the horizon.

“Obviously I’m playing football for that and one of the reasons why I joined AmaZulu was the mental state. I’ve been happy and I’m at a club where I’m happy,” Zungu told the media this week.

“I’m looking to work hard every day. I’m trying to help the team and I’m in an environment where I can do all of that. As long as I work hard and I stay fit, I think I can do anything.”

Zungu knows that injuries have often derailed his consistency in the past, and he is determined to stay healthy this season.

“I hope for an injury-free season so I can help my team achieve more and hopefully be selected for Bafana, because playing for Bafana has always been something that I enjoy,” he said.

Competition for places in Hugo Broos’ midfield is fierce, with the likes of Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole and Bathusi Aubaas establishing themselves as reliable options. 

With Broos having taken Thabang Monare to the last AFCON at 35 years old, a move for Zungu could not be completely ruled out as well. 

Zungu acknowledges the challenge but insists he is not discouraged.

“Obviously, to get there the competition is tight. The other midfielders at Bafana, they are doing very well. So, I have to be mentally prepared and mentally fit and physically [fit] to try and win coach Broos’ trust. And it’s possible — you never know. It’s football and things happen.”

For AmaZulu, Zungu’s form has been a welcome boost as they seek to cement themselves in the top half of the Betway Premiership. 

For the player himself, though, the bigger dream remains wearing the green and gold once again.

At 34, the clock may be ticking, but Zungu’s hunger to represent his country has not faded. His message is simple: as long as he is fit and performing, he still has a shot at Bafana.