May 15, (THEWILL)- South Africa national football team coach Hugo Broos has unveiled his preliminary 26-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe next month. The crucial fixtures could prove pivotal in Bafana Bafana’s bid to qualify for the global showpiece.
Broos has retained the core of his regular squad, whilst introducing some fresh faces to reinvigorate the team. Notable inclusions are Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma, Stellenbosch FC midfielder Jayden Adams, and the returning FCSB defender Siyabonga Ngezana. Strikers Lyle Foster and Relebogile Mofokeng of Orlando Pirates have also earned call-ups.
The coach faces some tough selection decisions, particularly in attack. In-form Tshegofatso Mabasa misses out despite his impressive form for Pirates, while Evidence Makgopa keeps his place despite limited game time. The versatile Thabo Moloisane and Thabiso Monyane could provide crucial squad depth.
Bafana will be in Uyo to face Nigeria on June 5 before hosting Zimbabwe at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on June 8. It will be the national team’s first match in Bloemfontein since the 2010 FIFA World Cup, ending a 14-year wait for the city to host Bafana Bafana.
With three points from two games, South Africa currently sit second in Group C, one point behind leaders Rwanda. Maximum points from the upcoming double-header could prove decisive in the race for an automatic World Cup qualification spot. Nigeria’s new coach Finidi George has been tasked to ensure Nigeria leapfrogs the Rainbow Nation and challenge Rwanda for the top spot.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
