Bafana Bafana have officially secured their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA after topping Group C. It’s a huge achievement for Hugo Broos’ side, who put together a consistent and composed qualifying campaign.
Here’s a look at how each player performed from the start of the qualifiers at the end of 2023 to Tuesday night’s decisive victory over Rwanda.
(Note: Only nine of the ten qualifiers are rated. FIFA awarded Lesotho a 3-0 win after an administrative error involving an ineligible Teboho Mokoena.)
Goalkeepers
Ronwen Williams – 9/10
Bafana’s ever-present between the sticks, Williams proved why he’s South Africa’s top goalkeeper. His leadership and composure were crucial, helping maintain defensive stability throughout the campaign.
Defenders
Khuliso Mudau – 8
Solid at right back and a threat going forward. Scored in the opening qualifier against Benin and was reliable whenever called upon.
Zuko Mdunyelwa – 6
Stepped in effectively when Mudau was unavailable, though injuries limited his time on the pitch.
Thabiso Monyane – 6
Made an important contribution off the bench against Nigeria. Unfortunately, injury cut short his campaign.
Aubrey Modiba – 8
A key figure on the left flank, contributing both defensively and offensively. His assist against Lesotho stood out.
Samukelo Kabini – 6
Strong showing against Nigeria, helping the team secure a valuable point.
Fawaaz Basadien – 7
Delivered a standout performance away to Benin, creating the opening goal. Lack of club minutes saw him fade from selection.
Nkosinathi Sibisi – 8
The most-used central defender and a rock at the back. Bafana only conceded once in the matches he played.
Siyanda Xulu – 6
Featured early in the campaign but has since fallen out of the setup.
Mothobi Mvala – 7
Reliable presence when fit, though injuries reduced his overall impact.
Siyabonga Ngezana – 7
A regular starter who provided consistency at the back.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi – 7.5
Impressive performances until his red card against Zimbabwe slightly tarnished an otherwise strong campaign.
Thabo Moloisane – 6
Showed promise before a head injury sidelined him.
Khulumani Ndamane – 7
Stepped in well against Rwanda, showcasing his rising status.
Nyiko Mobbie – No rating
Injury after five minutes against Lesotho meant little time to assess his impact.
Midfielders
Teboho Mokoena – 8
The engine of the midfield and a key figure in Bafana’s success. His administrative suspension was costly, but his performances were outstanding overall.
Sphephelo Sithole – 7
Was Mokoena’s main partner until injury. Provided key assists early on and returned late in the campaign.
Bathusi Aubaas – 6
Mostly a substitute but dependable when called upon.
Thalente Mbatha – 7
A game-changer in midfield, with a goal against Rwanda highlighting his influence.
Jayden Adams – No rating
Scored after coming off the bench against Benin but didn’t play enough minutes for a rating.
Sibongiseni Mthethwa – No rating
Came on late in the opening qualifier.
Forwards
Oswin Appollis – 9.5
The breakout star of the campaign. His goals, assists, and set-piece delivery made him a key figure in Bafana’s qualification story.
Lyle Foster – 8
Led the line with determination, scoring twice and assisting once. A vital part of the team’s attack.
Themba Zwane – 8
Brilliant early in the campaign, particularly against Nigeria, but injuries cut his involvement short.
Sipho Mbule – 8
Revitalized in a playmaker role, bringing creativity and composure in the final third.
Thapelo Morena – 8
The ultimate super-sub. Provided energy and impact off the bench.
Percy Tau – 6
Early contribution with a goal but faded out of the squad in the latter stages.
Evidence Makgopa – 7
A tireless worker who chipped in with key contributions, including a goal and assist in the Rwanda decider.
Iqraam Rayners – 6
Scored early in the campaign but injuries disrupted his momentum.
Mohau Nkota – 6.5
Young and exciting, his thunderous volley against Lesotho showed promise.
Relebohile Mofokeng – 6
Had limited appearances but showed flashes of his talent.
Bongokuhle Hlongwane – 5
Featured in the early games but didn’t remain part of Broos’ plans.
Elias Mokwana – 5
Limited impact and playing time in the latter half of qualifying.
Mihlali Mayambela – 5
Early involvement but faded from the squad as the campaign progressed.
Zakhele Lepasa – 5
Came off the bench early in qualifying but hasn’t featured since.
Kamogelo Sebelebele – No rating
Limited minutes across two appearances.
Ashley Cupido – No rating
Brief appearance against Rwanda.
Mduduzi Shabalala – No rating
Came on in the final minute of the Rwanda match.
The Verdict: Stars Aligned for Bafana Bafana’s Big Stage”
Bafana’s qualification was built on a solid defensive foundation, an industrious midfield, and breakout attacking stars like Appollis and Foster. Ronwen Williams’ leadership and consistency in goal provided the backbone, while young talents like Mbokazi and Nkota announced themselves on the big stage.
Hugo Broos has successfully blended experience with youth and if this momentum continues, Bafana could be a dangerous side in North America next year.
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