Chiefs legend Khune makes bold Bafana claim for Petersen

Kaizer Chiefs legend Itumeleng Khune has thrown his weight behind Amakhosi shot-stopper Brandon Petersen, claiming the goalkeeper has done enough to earn a spot in Bafana Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.

Despite Petersen’s stellar form, the 31-year-old was overlooked by Hugo Broos for the recent Africa Cup of Nations. The Belgian mentor opted for the trio of Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, and Ricardo Goss—a decision that has sparked debate given Petersen’s consistency this season.

Khune, who was speaking at an event in Johannesburg this week, believes Petersen’s statistics speak for themselves. The former Ajax Cape Town man has kept a remarkable 11 clean sheets in 15 league matches, adding a further four shutouts in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Brandon Petersen has been very good this season. He has done tremendously well,” Khune told the media. “For me, it’s not only about records, but it’s about him performing to the best of his abilities in helping the club achieve their goals.”

Chiefs legend Khune backs Brandon Petersen for Bafana’s World Cup squad

Khune emphasised that if Petersen maintains this level, a ticket to the US, Mexico, and Canada for the World Cup in June should be within reach.

“I wish him everything of the best because if he continues playing the way he has been and continues to keep the clean sheets, he stands a very good chance of being in the Bafana squad for the 2026 World Cup.”

A message to the Amakhosi dressing Room From Khune

The man affectionately known as ‘Spider Kid’ didn’t stop at Petersen. He challenged the rest of the Naturena-based side to use their continental campaign to catch Broos’ eye.

Chiefs are currently on the verge of the CAF Confederation Cup knockout stages and face a crucial final group game against Egyptian giants Zamalek SC this Saturday.

“It’s very good to see the team doing so well. Obviously, the bigger prize is for them to be among the squad that will be travelling to the World Cup,” Khune added. “I understand travelling on the continent is not an easy thing, but as professional players, you have to find a way to deal with the situation. If they continue grinding for results, it will definitely help them get into Bafana Bafana.”

A single point in Egypt this weekend will be enough to see the Glamour Boys progress to the quarter-finals, providing Petersen with yet another high-profile platform to state his case for national team selection.