Broos names Bafana squad to seal World Cup dream

Bafana Bafana Broos has made his move as he trimmed his provisional list to name the final 23-man squad tasked with securing South Africa’s place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with two high-stakes qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda looming this month.

The announcement was confirmed at the SABC studios in Auckland Park on Thursday afternoon.

The Decisive Fixtures For Broos’ Troops

Broos’ charges will take on neighbours Zimbabwe in an “away” encounter at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday, 10 October, at 6:00 PM (SA time).

Four days later, the focus shifts to Mpumalanga as Bafana host Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday, 14 October, with a 6:00 PM kick-off.

South Africa finds itself in a tense battle in Group C of the qualifiers, alongside Benin, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and Lesotho.

Currently, Bafana sit second in the group with 14 points after eight matches, tied on points with group leaders Benin. Only a narrow goal difference separates the two nations. This tight race comes after the team was recently penalized three points by FIFA for fielding an ineligible Teboho Mokoena against Lesotho in March.

A strong showing in these final two matches is now critical to ensure qualification remains in South Africa’s hands.

Sundowns and Pirates Dominate Roster

The final selection reflects the dominance of the country’s two biggest clubs.

Mamelodi Sundowns leads the way, with Bafana captain Ronwen Williams heading a list that includes midfield general Teboho Mokoena, the versatile Aubrey Modiba, defender Khuliso Mudau, utility man Bathusi Aubaas, defender Thapelo Morena, and striker Iqraam Rayners.

Orlando Pirates is also heavily represented, with key players like midfielder Sipho Mbule, young sensation Relebohile Mofokeng,  defender Nkosinathi Sibisi making the cut.

Notably, Kaizer Chiefs have no players selected in Broos’ final squad this time around.

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos announces his squad for the final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe (Moses Mabhida Stadium) and Rwanda (Mbombela) this month.#BafanaPride@SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/0XwK44e8xD

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) October 2, 2025

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