South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has unveiled his final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, blending experienced campaigners with a handful of emerging talents as Bafana Bafana prepare for their long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage.
The Belgian tactician has largely maintained faith in the group that guided South Africa through qualification, but there is room for two uncapped inclusions in defenders Olwethu Makhanya and Bradley Cross.
The pair were absent during the qualification journey but now have an opportunity to announce themselves on the international stage, either in Friday’s preparatory clash against Nicaragua or during the tournament itself across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Makhanya strengthens the central defensive department, while Cross has been drafted in to provide additional depth on the left side of defence amid concerns surrounding Aubrey Modiba’s fitness after the defender picked up an injury during Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAF Champions League final second-leg encounter on Sunday.
Despite the injury scare, Modiba has retained his place in the squad. Norway-based defender Samukele Kabini, who features for Molde FK, is also included and offers another option at left-back.
South Africa’s attacking hopes will once again rest heavily on Burnley forward Lyle Foster, who headlines a squad dominated by locally based players. Nineteen members of the travelling party currently play their club football in South Africa’s domestic league.
Veteran midfielder Themba Zwane has also earned selection, with his calm presence and leadership expected to be crucial in guiding the squad through the pressures of the tournament.
The 2026 World Cup will serve as the final assignment of Broos’ managerial career. The 74-year-old has already confirmed he will step away from coaching after the tournament, bringing an end to a long and distinguished journey in football.
Interestingly, Broos’ playing career also concluded on the World Cup stage, when he represented Belgium at the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico and helped his country secure a fourth-place finish.
The final Bafana Bafana 🇿🇦🔥 2026 FIFA World Cup squad is LOCKED IN! ⚽💛💚 From the safe hands in goal to the clinical forwards, these are the players who will represent South Africa on the global stage.
#BafanaPride@adidasfootball @adidasza @rexona_sa @standardbankza… pic.twitter.com/d9B9NPIpqF
— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) May 27, 2026
South Africa are preparing for their fourth appearance at the FIFA World Cup finals. Bafana Bafana previously featured in the 1998 and 2002 tournaments before hosting the global showpiece in 2010. However, they have never advanced beyond the group stage.
South Africa’s Final 26-Man Squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Goalkeepers
Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)
Defenders
Khuliso Mudau, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union), Bradley Cross (Kaizer Chiefs), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City), Nkosinathi Sibisi, Kamogelo Sebelebele (Orlando Pirates), Ime Okon (Hannover 96), Samukele Kabini (Molde FK), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire)
Midfielders
Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Sphephelo Sithole (Tondela)
Forwards
Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates), Lyle Foster (Burnley), Iqraam Rayners, Themba Zwane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol).
