In the wake of a significant setback from FIFA, head coach Hugo Broos
has announced his South African squad for two critical 2026 FIFA World Cup
qualifiers.
FIFA has handed Bafana Bafana a severe blow by docking the team three points
in Group E. This punishment stems from fielding an ineligible Teboho Mokoena
in their match against Lesotho in March. As a result, South Africa has
fallen to second place in the group on goal difference, making their path to
the World Cup much more difficult.
To keep their qualification hopes alive, the team must now aim for decisive
victories in their upcoming fixtures against Zimbabwe on Friday, October
10th, and Rwanda four days later.
Broos’ latest squad sees several key changes. Malibongwe Khoza of Mamelodi
Sundowns earns a call-up due to his strong recent form, while Thabang
Matuludi replaces the usual squad member Nyiko Mobbie.
In a positive development, midfielder Sphephelo Sithole returns to the
national team after recovering from injury. His solid partnership with
Teboho Mokoena during the Africa Cup of Nations is likely to be revived,
especially given Sithole’s good form since his return. The team will,
however, be without defender Siyabonga Ngezana, who is suspended due to an
accumulation of yellow cards.
Full Squad:
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sipho Chaine, Ricardo Goss
Defenders: Malibongwe Khoza, Khuliso Mudau, Khulumani Ndamane, Mbekezeli
Mbokazi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Thabang Matuludi, Samukelo Kabini
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Sphephelo Sithole, Bathusi Aubass, Thalente
Mbatha
Forwards: Lyle Foster, Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thapelo Morena,
Sipho Mbule, Iqraam Rayners, Tshepang Moremi, Mohau Nkota
