Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, has named a strong 37-man preliminary squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin. The squad features six uncapped players, marking an exciting new chapter for the South African national team as they prepare for crucial fixtures this month.
A Fresh Look at the Squad
Among the new faces are Samukelo Kabini and Khulekani Ndamane from TS Galaxy, Ndamulelo Maphangule from Polokwane City, Deano Van Rooyen from Orlando Pirates, Siphesihle Mkhize from Sekhukhune United, and two players from Stellenbosch: Ashley Cupido and Thabo Moloisane. These fresh additions will aim to bring new energy and depth to the squad as they face off against Lesotho and Benin.
Bafana Bafana Matches Ahead
Bafana Bafana will play host to Lesotho at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on 21 March 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 18h00. The squad will then travel to Côte d’Ivoire to face Benin on 25 March 2025, after the Beninese home ground was deemed unsuitable for international matches. This will be a crucial set of games as Bafana Bafana looks to cement their position in the group.
A Strong Core from the Top Clubs
As expected, Broos has once again called on a majority of players from the country’s top clubs, with 17 players coming from Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. This balance of fresh faces alongside the experience of key players from the PSL’s biggest teams ensures a well-rounded squad.
The Road to 2026 World Cup
Bafana Bafana is currently second in Group C with seven points, tied with Benin and Rwanda, who lead the group on goal difference. Lesotho is close behind with five points, while Nigeria and Zimbabwe are struggling at the bottom. This upcoming doubleheader is pivotal for Broos’ squad as they continue their quest for qualification to the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Who Are the Bafana Bafana Six New Call-Ups?
- Samukelo Kabini (TS Galaxy)
- Khulekani Ndamane (TS Galaxy)
- Ndamulelo Maphangule (Polokwane City)
- Deano Van Rooyen (Orlando Pirates)
- Siphesihle Mkhize (Sekhukhune United)
- Ashley Cupido (Stellenbosch)
- Thabo Moloisane (Stellenbosch)
The Bafana Bafana 37-Player Squad Selected
- Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, Sage Stephens, Sipho Chaine
- Defenders: Sydney Mobbie, Khulumani Ndamane, Thabo Moloisane, Rushwin Dortley, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Deano Van Rooyen, Siyabonga Ngezana, Khuliso Mudau, Samukelo Kabini, Fawaaz Basadien, Grant Kekana
- Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, Bathusi Aubaas, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, Ndamulelo Maphangule, Luke le Roux, Siphesihle Mkhize, Evidence Makgopa, Devin Titus, Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi
- Forwards: Tshegofatso Mabasa, Iqraam Rayners, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thalente Mbatha, Ashley Cupido, Thapelo Morena, Elias Mokwana, Lyle Foster, Percy Tau, Mihlali Mayambela
Ready to Impress
As Broos gets ready to announce the final squad next week, the six new call-ups will undoubtedly be looking to impress in the upcoming qualifiers. The road to the 2026 World Cup starts here, and these fresh faces could be key to Bafana Bafana’s success. Fans are eagerly awaiting the performances of these talented newcomers!
Related article: Broos Faces Tough Choices – Bafana Bafana’s Injury Woes Ahead of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
