Broos revealed a 25-player squad on Monday, becoming the first among the 24 teams headed to Morocco to do so, and although the core players remain his trusted choices, he has added two 20-year-olds, which many consider an exciting move.

“We must also focus on the future and include players who will train with us and experience the national team environment,” Broos stated during the squad announcement. “This squad will largely remain the same for the World Cup, with maybe a few changes, so it’s important to prepare for that as well.”

Smith plays for English Championship club Queens Park Rangers, while Shandre Campbell is a member of Belgian team Club Brugge and has appeared in the UEFA Champions League this season.

Saudi-based right winger Elias Mokwanaalso returns, and Burnley’s Lyle Foster has been included as well.

Mamelodi Sundowns forward Iqraam Rayners is one of three standby players, along with centre-back Thabo Moloisane (Stellenbosch FC) and Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala.

Sundowns playmaker Themba Zwane was left out after just returning from injury, while Orlando Pirates’ Patrick Maswanganyi was not chosen.

Only five players from Sundowns are in the main squad, despite Broos having depended heavily on them during qualification for this tournament and the World Cup.

Instead, nine players from Pirates were selected, with the full team expected to assemble by Tuesday or Wednesday next week.

Broos disclosed plans to arrange a friendly match against an as-yet unnamed opponent on either December 16 or 17.

South Africa will face Egypt, Zimbabwe and Angola in Group B in Morocco, beginning with a game against Angola on December 22.