South Africa starting XI vs Canada: Pirates star dropped as Broos makes one change

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South Africa starting XI vs Canada: Pirates star dropped as Broos makes one change
South Africa team photo at the World Cup. Image: Imago

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has made just one change to his starting XI for his side’s Round of 32 clash against Canada at the 2026 World Cup on Sunday.

South Africa take on the co-hosts in Los Angeles with a place in the Round of 16 at stake and Broos has gone with an almost unchanged lineup with the return of Teboho Mokoena the only alteration.

South Africa players.
Bafana Bafana players. Image: SAFA

Mokoena comes back into the squad after serving his one-match suspension against South Korea on Thursday and it is Orlando Pirates’ Thalente Mbatha who has given way.

Who is starting for South Africa?

Captain Ronwen Williams keeps his spot in goal while Aubrey Modiba (left-back) and Khuliso Mudau (right-back) will play at full back.

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos instructs his players during their match against Mexico.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos instructs his players during their match against Mexico. Image: Imago

Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Ime Okon continue their partnership in central defence while Mokoena will play alongside Sphephelo Sithole in central midfield.

Relebohile Mofokeng will operate just ahead of them in the number 10 role while Oswin Appollis and Thapelo Maseko retain their places on the wings and so is Evidence Makgopa, who leads the line.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a sports journalist covering South Africa, with 16 years in sports media and a Bachelor's Degree in Communication. Focused on football analysis and responsible gambling, his work has appeared on GOAL and Pulse Sports Kenya, and he is a regular football analyst on TV and radio.

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