Bafana Bafana Squad Named for World Cup Qualifiers Against Lesotho and Nigeria
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has unveiled his 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. There are two pivotal clashes on the horizon. South Africa will take on neighbours Lesotho at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on 5 September. They will then host continental powerhouses Nigeria four days later at the same venue. Both fixtures are expected to have a major influence on the team’s chances of reaching the global showpiece.
Williams Leads the Charge
National team captain Ronwen Williams once again headlines the list. He brings invaluable leadership and experience to the side. However, one notable talking point is the absence of defender Khuliso Mudau. He continues to miss out due to his struggles for game time at Mamelodi Sundowns this season. His omission leaves a gap in defence. But Broos has opted for other consistent performers to anchor the back line.
Sundowns and Pirates Core
As expected, domestic heavyweights Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates dominate the selection. Sundowns’ presence is felt through the likes of Aubrey Modiba, Zuko Mdunyelwa and midfield general Teboho Mokoena. From the Buccaneers, Sipho Chaine, Mbikezeli Mbokazi, Thalente Mbatha and Patrick Maswanganyi all feature. This highlights the strong influence the Soweto giants continue to have on the national set-up.
European Contingent Adds Depth
Broos has also looked abroad for reinforcements. He named several Europe-based players who will add an international edge to the squad. Siyabonga Ngezana (FCSB, Romania), Luke Le Roux (Portsmouth, England), Lyle Foster (Burnley, England), Ime Okon (Hannover 96, Germany) and Samukelo Kabini (Molde FK, Norway) all make the cut. Their exposure to competitive European leagues is expected to bring balance and much-needed depth across the park.
New Faces and Youthful Flair
The squad sees the inclusion of Mohau Nkota. He recently completed a high-profile move from Orlando Pirates to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq. His call-up signals Broos’ willingness to reward players breaking through on the international stage.
There’s also a refreshing injection of youth. Talented attackers Relebohile Mofokeng and Mduduzi Shabalala add creativity and flair. The pair are joined by the likes of Oswin Appollis and Iqraam Rayners. They bring pace and energy to South Africa’s forward line.
Also read: Themba Zwane Out for Two Months: Sundowns and Bafana Bafana Face Setback
Key Battles Await
The Lesotho match is viewed as a must-win to build confidence. However, the real test will come against Nigeria. The Super Eagles boast one of the strongest squads on the continent. A positive result in Bloemfontein could place Bafana Bafana firmly on track in their qualification bid.
Bafana Bafana Full Squad Breakdown
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele FC), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)
Defenders: Sydney Mobbie (Siwelele), Zuko Mdunyelwa, Aubrey Modiba (both Sundowns), Mbikezeli Mbokazi (Pirates), Khulumani Ndamane (TS Galaxy), Ime Okon (Hannover 96, Germany), Samukelo Kabini (Molde FK, Norway), Siyabonga Ngezana (FCSB, Romania)
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas (both Sundowns), Luke Le Roux (Portsmouth, England), Thalente Mbatha (Pirates)
Forwards: Kamogelo Sebelebele, Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng (all Pirates), Iqraam Rayners (Sundowns), Lyle Foster (Burnley, England), Mduduzi Shabalala (Kaizer Chiefs), Mohau Nkota (Al-Ettifaq, Saudi Arabia)
High Stakes for Broos and His Men
With qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup firmly in focus, these September fixtures carry immense weight. A slip-up against Lesotho could prove costly. Meanwhile, a strong showing against Nigeria may serve as a statement of intent. For Broos and his squad, this is a defining moment. It could determine whether Bafana Bafana remain on course for football’s biggest stage.
