Bafana Squad SHOCK! Chiefs Snubbed, Sundowns Dominate, Pirates Praised!

Bafana Bafana Name Squad for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers!

The pressure is on! Bafana Bafana have announced their 23-man squad for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda. These matches are make-or-break for South Africa's World Cup aspirations.

The team will face Zimbabwe at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on October 10, 2025, followed by a clash against Rwanda at the Mbombela Stadium on October 14, 2025. Both games kick off at 6pm.

Key Selections and Notable Absences

Coach Hugo Broos has opted for a blend of experience and youth. Mamelodi Sundowns players dominate the squad, contributing seven players. Orlando Pirates are also well-represented, providing key attackers and a defender. However, Kaizer Chiefs players are notably absent – a testament, according to some reports, to their recent dip in form.

• Ronwen Williams returns as captain and goalkeeper.
• Teboho Mokoena, despite recent controversy, remains a midfield mainstay.
• Relebohile Mofokeng, the Pirates star, earns another call-up.
• Iqraam Rayners and Thapelo Morena offer attacking threat.
• Sphephelo Sithole brings international experience from Portugal.

Thabang Matuludi and Nkosinathi Sibisi are rewarded for consistent performances with call ups to the squad.

The Stakes Are High!

South Africa currently sit second in Group C with 14 points. A FIFA ruling deducted three points for fielding Mokoena against Lesotho, making the situation even more critical. Bafana Bafana must win both matches to secure their spot.

Broos has lauded Orlando Pirates and acknowledged the decline of Sundowns, which makes these selections all the more interesting. Will this squad be enough to secure those vital wins? Only time will tell!