Thabang Monare, who is currently representing South Africa at the Africa Cup of Nations, may have more positive news awaiting him at his club side, Orlando Pirates, by the end of the season. The midfielder, who initially had a strong start to the season with consistent game time, has surprised some by being included in Hugo Broos’ 23-man squad for the tournament in Ivory Coast. Prior to this recent call-up, the 34-year-old last played for the national team almost two years ago, in a friendly against France in March 2022. Hailing from Embalenhle, Monare made his first appearance in this year’s Afcon, coming on as a second-half substitute for Sphephelo Sithole as South Africa defeated Namibia 4-0 at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium.