Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has officially kicked off South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations, naming a dynamic 38-man preliminary squad ahead of the upcoming international friendlies against Panama. As the global spectacle in North America looms, Broos is leaving no stone unturned in his quest to build a formidable team. The squad boasts a blend of seasoned veterans, in-form local stars, and a fresh injection of international talent, sparking excitement among fans and pundits alike.
The Headline Act: Olwethu Makhanya’s Homecoming
Undoubtedly, the most eagerly anticipated name on the squad list is that of Olwethu Makhanya. The 21-year-old center-back has been a revelation for Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer (MLS), playing a pivotal role in securing the MLS Supporters’ Shield for his team. After months of public calls for his inclusion, Broos has finally handed the former Stellenbosch star the chance to stake his claim for a permanent spot in the Bafana defense.
The Return of “Mshishi” and Overseas Reinforcements
In a move that solidifies the midfield, veteran Themba Zwane makes his return to the national team fold. After missing recent AFCON action due to injury, “Mshishi’s” creative spark is expected to be a key asset as Bafana gears up for their World Cup opener against Mexico.
The squad also leans heavily on international experience, with several stars plying their trade across Europe and the Americas. Notable inclusions include Lyle Foster (Burnley, England), Ime Okon (Hannover 96, Germany), and Samukelo Kabini (Molde FK, Norway), all of whom bring valuable top-flight experience to the table.
Local Excellence Rewarded
The Betway Premiership continues to serve as the foundation of the national team. Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates dominate the squad, but standout performers from other clubs have also earned their place. Stellenbosch FC’s Mthetheleli Mthiyane, who has enjoyed a stellar season, earns a deserved call-up, while Polokwane City’s Thabang Matuludi and Ndamulelo Maphangule also make the cut.
Full Preliminary Squad List
Goalkeepers
- Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Ricardo Goss (Sivuthe FC)
- Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)
- Renaldo Leaner (Sekhukhune United)
- Darren Johnson (AmaZulu FC)
Defenders
- Khuliso Mudau (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union, USA)
- Deano Van Rooyen (Orlando Pirates)
- Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City)
- Vuyo Letlapa (Sekhukhune United)
- Tylon Smith (Queens Park Rangers, England)
- Nkosinathi Sibisi (Orlando Pirates)
- Aubrey Modiba (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Khulumani Ndamane (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Ime Okon (Hannover 96, Germany)
- Samukelo Kabini (Molde FK, Norway)
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire, USA)
Midfielders
- Teboho Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Jayden Adams (Stellenbosch FC)
- Thalente Mbatha (Orlando Pirates)
- Ndamulelo Maphangule (Polokwane City)
- Mthetheleli Mthiyane (Stellenbosch FC)
- Luke Le Roux (Portsmouth, England)
- Sphephelo Sithole (CD Tondela, Portugal)
- Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Minnesota United, USA)
Forwards
- Oswin Appollis (Polokwane City)
- Tshepang Moremi (Orlando Pirates)
- Evidence Makgopa (Orlando Pirates)
- Lyle Foster (Burnley, England)
- Iqraam Rayners (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
- Themba Zwane (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Patrick Maswanganyi (Orlando Pirates)
- Yanela Mbuthuma (Orlando Pirates)
- Kamogelo Sebelebele (Orlando Pirates)
- Mohau Nkota (Al Ettifaq, Saudi Arabia)
- Thapelo Morena (Mamelodi Sundowns)
- Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol, Cyprus)
The Road to Mexico 2026
These two friendlies against Panama are more than just exhibition matches for Broos and his charges. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to kick off on June 11, where Bafana Bafana will face Mexico, these fixtures will play a crucial role in finalizing the team’s tactical blueprint.
Match Schedule:
- Match 1: vs. Panama | Friday, March 27, 2026 | Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban (19:00 SAST)
- Match 2: vs. Panama | Tuesday, March 31, 2026 | DHL Stadium, Cape Town (19:30 SAST)
The final 23-man squad is expected to be announced next week, with the team set to gather in Johannesburg on March 23 for the start of their preparations.
