Broos casts wide net: Bafana’s preliminary squad for final World Cup showdown revealed

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has named a 45-player preliminary squad for South Africa’s final two 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda next month.

The penultimate clash sees Broos’ men take on Zimbabwe at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, 10 October 2025, with kickoff set for 15:00. Four days later, Bafana will host Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, in a high-stakes finale kicking off at 18:00.

Key Veterans & Proven Performers

- Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns) – The undisputed No.1 and captain, Williams’ leadership and shot-stopping will be crucial.

- Teboho Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns) – Midfield general with range, vision, and composure. A consistent performer in qualifiers.

- Lyle Foster (Burnley, England) – Premier League experience and physical presence make him a vital attacking option.

- Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Minnesota United, USA) – Electric pace and directness; a threat on the counter and in transition.

Breakout Talents & Rising Stars

- Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates) – The teenage sensation with flair and fearlessness. A wildcard who can unlock defences.

- Mduduzi Shabalala (Kaizer Chiefs) – Another young creative spark, known for his dribbling and eye for goal.

- Iqraam Rayners (Mamelodi Sundowns) – In red-hot form domestically, Rayners offers versatility and finishing instinct.

- Jayden Adams (Stellenbosch) – A midfield dynamo with energy and tactical intelligence. One to watch.

Europe-Based Edge

- Luke Le Roux (Portsmouth, England) – Composed and tactically sharp, Le Roux adds depth and international experience.

- Sphesihle Sithole (CD Tondela, Portugal) – A technically gifted midfielder with a growing reputation in Europe.

- Ime Okon (Hannover 96, Germany) – A defensive prospect with Bundesliga exposure, offering physicality and aerial strength.

These players could form the spine of Broos’ final 23-man selection. The Bafana coach is expected to trim the squad to a final 23-man selection in the coming days.

South Africa currently leads Group C with 17 points from eight matches, ahead of Benin (14 points), Nigeria and Rwanda (both on 11), Lesotho (6), and Zimbabwe (4). Victory in either fixture could seal Bafana’s place at the global showpiece.