Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has announced his final 23-man squad for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria, set to be played in early September at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein[1][2]. The selected squad features a blend of established players, fresh call-ups, and some notable absentees due to injury.
Captain Ronwen Williams, midfield anchor Teboho Mokoena, and striker Lyle Foster headline the squad. Several new and in-form talents like Orlando Pirates winger Kamogelo Sebelebele and Kaizer Chiefs forward Mduduzi Shabalala have earned call-ups thanks to their strong club performances[2].
There are some key omissions, most notably Mamelodi Sundowns players Themba Zwane (injured) and Khuliso Mudau, as well as Thapelo Morena and Jayden Adams. Zwane is expected to be sidelined for up to two months[1][2].
The Final Squad:
- Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss
- Defenders: Nyiko Mobbie, Zuko Mdunyelwa, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Khulumani Ndamane, Samukelo Kabini, Siyabonga Ngezana, Aubrey Modiba, Ime Okon
- Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Luke le Roux, Bathusi Aubaas
- Forwards: Lyle Foster, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi, Iqraam Rayners, Mduduzi Shabalala, Mohau Nkota, Relebohile Mofokeng
Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns provide the bulk of the squad, especially in key midfield and attacking positions[1]. Bafana Bafana currently top Group C in qualifying, having secured 13 points from four wins and two draws in six matches[2].