Bafana Bafana World Cup Preliminary Squad

Barely a month from now, Bafana Bafana will be playing Mexico in the 2026 FIFA World Cup that is set to begin on June 11.

Hugo Broos’ men will be up against co-hosts Mexico in the opening game, before facing Czech Republic in their second Group A fixture then conclude with another tricky outing with the Republic of South Korea.

South Africa players at AFCON 2025. — Bafana Bafana – Photo – Imago

The Belgian is hopeful of becoming the first-ever South Africa coach to help the team get into the knockout phase of the prestigious global competition.

Players have been pushing for a chance to represent the nation in the World Cup. Who stands a chance? Have a look at the individuals who stand a chance to make the preliminary squad from where the technical team will select the final team.

Goalkeepers

It is interesting to see how coach Hugo Broos will come up with the best three shot-stoppers to make the department.

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen during the Soweto Derby. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

As expected, captain Ronwen Williams will on the list. Sipho Chaine has been outstanding for Orlando Pirates which has seen him win the Golden Glove, but is not guaranteed a place after strong showings from Kaizer Chiefs captain Brandon Petersen.

Renaldo Leaner has shown quality with Sekhukhune United alongside Siwelele’s Ricardo Goss.

Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns), Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates), Brandon Petersen (Kaizer Chiefs), Ricardo Goss, (Siwelele FC), Renaldo Leaner (Sekhukhune United).

Defenders

One of the most competitive departments in the team owing to form and talent of players involved.

Kamogelo Sebelebele - Image: Orlando Pirates — Kamogelo Sebelebele – Image: Orlando Pirates

Apart from the usual few individuals who are guaranteed a slot, Siyabonga Ngezana must prove his fitness level before being considered. Kaizer Chiefs duo Thabiso Monyane and Aden McCarthy have made their case, as well as Kamogelo Sebelebele.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire, MLS), Siyabonga Ngezana (FCSB), Grant Kekana (Mamelodi Sundowns) Khulumani Ndamane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Samukelo Kabini (Molde FK), Thabiso Monyane (Kaizer Chiefs), Aden McCarthy (Kaizer Chiefs), Khuliso Mudau (Mamelodi Sundowns) Aubrey Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns), Kamogelo Sebelebele (Orlando Pirates), Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates), Ime Okon (Hannover 96)

Midfielders

Just like the defensive unit, some interesting faces have emerged in the second half of the season, among them Lebohang Maboe who played a crucial role in helping Amakhosi secure the CAF Confederation Cup spot with two games to spare.

Themba Zwane's injury had left Hugo Broos worried ahead of the World Cup. — Themba Zwane’s injury had left Hugo Broos worried ahead of the World Cup. Image: SAFA

In the creative department, Broos will have to make a hard choice between Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi, who are raising their hands. Veteran Themba Zwane might miss out after recent inconsistencies.

Lebohang Maboe (Kaizer Chiefs), Teboho Mokoena (Mamelod Sundowns), Sphephelo Sithole (CD Tondela), Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates), Jayden Adams ( Mamelodi Sundowns), Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates), Themba Zwane (Mamelodi Sundowns), Patrick Maswanganyi (Orlando Pirates), Bathusi Aubaas (Mamelodi Sundowns)

Attackers

Iqraam Rayners has been pushing hard for a return to the team after being overlooked in recent assignments. His strong showings in PSL might see coach Broos giving him a chance.

Golden Arrows winger Siyanda Ndlovu has also been knocking on South Africa doors which puts Mohau Nkota at the risk of missing out.

Oswin Appollis (Orlando Pirates), Tshepang Moremi (Orlando Pirates), Iqraam Rayners (Mamelodi Sundowns), Tashreeq Matthews (Mamelodi Sundowns), Lyle Foster (Burnley), Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates), Siyanda Ndlovu (Golden Arrows), Mohau Nkota (Al Ettifaq), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol).