The South African Football Association (SAFA) and Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos have today revealed the much-anticipated final 23-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe. The announcement follows weeks of speculation and anticipation among fans and pundits alike.
Broos, who initially named a 36-man preliminary squad in May, has now made his final selection, blending experience with emerging talent. The final squad boasts a mix of seasoned veterans and promising youngsters, reflecting Broos’ commitment to building a competitive team for the future.
Bafana Bafana World Cup Qualifiers Lineup
Among the notable inclusions are captain Ronwen Williams, the experienced goalkeeper who will be pivotal in providing leadership and stability between the posts. The reserve goalkeepers around him would be Ricardo Goss and Veli Mothwa.
The defensive line features a combination of seasoned campaigners like Thapelo Morena, Audrey Modiba and Mothobi Mvala among a few other talented backliners.
The midfield is packed with creativity and energy, with the likes of Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, and Sphephelo Sithole expected to dictate the tempo and create scoring opportunities. Upfront, the team boasts a potent strike force led by seasoned strikers Percy Tau and Themba Zwane, alongside Lyle Foster, the young striker who has been playing for his club Burnley FC in the English Premier League.
Broos expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to navigate the challenges posed by the qualifiers. “We have a good mix of experience and youth, and I believe we have the quality to compete against any team. We are well prepared and determined to make our country proud,” he stated during the press conference.
Bafana Bafana will face Nigeria’s Super Eagles away from home at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7th, before returning to host Zimbabwe at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, June 11th. The Free State Stadium holds special significance for the team, having been the venue for their historic 2-1 victory over France in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
SAFA officials have also expressed optimism about the team’s prospects. They have called on fans to rally behind the team and create a vibrant atmosphere in Bloemfontein for the home game against Zimbabwe.
The World Cup qualifiers are a crucial step for Bafana Bafana’s ambitions of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. The road to qualification will be long and arduous, but with a well-balanced squad and a determined spirit, South Africa is ready to take on the challenge.
Also read: Bafana Bafana: A Look At The Crucial 2024 Fixture Schedule
